ICRT

Posted on 2026-06-18 18:06:13

Taipei Songshan Airport has resumed normal operations after temporarily
suspending ground activities this afternoon due to thunderstorms in the
capital region.

The Civil Aviation Administration says ground operations were halted at 2:35
PM as lightning and severe weather moved into the area, affecting some
arriving and departing flights.

Officials say flight schedules may still experience some delays as airlines
work to clear the backlog.

Airports served by Songshan routes may also see residual disruptions.

Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest flight
information.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-06-18 18:06:13

The Ministry of Agriculture says supplies of key food products remain
sufficient ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival holiday despite recent heavy
rain.

Officials say additional supplies of pork, native chickens, vegetables and
fruit have been made available to help meet holiday demand and keep prices
stable.

The ministry says some vegetable crops were damaged by the rain, but leafy
vegetable production was only lightly affected and is expected to recover as
weather conditions improve.

Shipments of vegetables and fruit have also been increased ahead of the
holiday.

Officials say supplies of ingredients commonly used in rice dumplings,
including glutinous rice, mushrooms, peanuts and dried seafood products,
remain adequate.

The ministry says it will continue monitoring production and market
conditions during the holiday period.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-06-18 18:06:13

A record four Taiwanese universities have been ranked among the world's top
200 in the latest QS World University Rankings.

National Taiwan University led the way, rising to a record-high 54th place.

It was joined in the top 200 by National Tsing Hua University, National Yang
Ming Chiao Tung University and National Cheng Kung University.

According to QS data, all four institutions achieved their highest-ever
positions in the rankings, with the latter (National Cheng Kung University)
entering the top 200 for the first time.

The rankings evaluate universities in areas including research,
employability, learning experience, international engagement and
sustainability.

QS says Taiwan's universities performed particularly well in measures related
to graduate employment outcomes.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-06-18 18:06:13

And in similar news,

Researchers and students in Japan will now have easier access to information
and research about Taiwan with the opening of Japan's first Taiwan Academic
Digital Resource Center.

The center was established through a partnership between Taiwan's National
Central Library and the University of Tsukuba.

Officials say the project is intended to strengthen academic and cultural
exchanges between Taiwan and Japan.

To mark the opening, Taiwan's National Central Library presented
reproductions of two treasures from its collection, including an 800-year-old
annotated edition of Su Shi's poems and an early printed edition of the
"Diamond Sutra".

(JM)

Posted on 2026-06-18 16:08:48

Thirty Taiwan-made electric buses are now running in Paraguay, as Taiwan and
its South American ally expand green transport cooperation.

The Foreign Ministry says all 30 buses entered service in March.

Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi (陳明祺) inspected the project during a
visit to Paraguay on June 15.

He also rode one of the buses on a city route and tested its electronic fare
system.

Paraguay's Deputy Minister of Public Works Emiliano Fernandez said passengers
have praised the buses for their comfort and accessibility.

The ministry says the buses are quiet, produce no pollution and are improving
public transport in Asuncion.

Taiwan and Paraguay say they will keep working on smart transport solutions
to support Paraguay's green transport goals.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-18 16:08:48

Taichung City's late appeal in the Costco hepatitis A berry case has been
rejected, making the court ruling final.

The city had fined two Costco branches 1-million NT each over frozen berries
imported in 2023.

The berries tested positive for hepatitis A at the border, according to court
documents.

The city said the Taichung and North Taichung branches failed to report the
risk immediately.

But the Taichung High Administrative Court revoked the fines on April 2.

It said the city violated the principle against punishing the same act twice.

City health officials say staff have been disciplined, and he has also asked
to be punished.

The city says it will study whether it can issue another fine.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-18 16:08:48

Taipei's immigration detention center held a Dragon Boat Festival event to
help detainees experience Taiwan's holiday traditions.

The National Immigration Agency says detainees from different countries were
invited to make zongzi rice dumplings.

The center also prepared ingredients that respected different religions and
eating habits.

For many Indonesian detainees who are Muslim, the center used chicken instead
of pork.

It also prepared Southeast Asian ingredients, including coconut milk and
pandan leaves.

Officials say the Taipei Detention Center currently holds 360 people, with
Vietnamese nationals making up the largest group.

A Vietnamese detainee said the activity reminded him of food from home.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-18 16:08:48

Now turning to international news...

G7 leaders have pledged new support for Ukraine and fresh sanctions against
Russia after talks in France.

Reuters reports the statement could strengthen Kyiv's position in any peace
talks with Moscow.

U.S. President Donald Trump said Russia is losing more soldiers and called
Moscow the "offensive" side.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump's approach to the war showed a
real change.

At the summit, Trump also joked, "I'm the boss," as he joined a session on
global economic security.

Leaders welcomed a preliminary U.S.-Iran deal, but Trump said bombing could
resume if Iran does not comply.

The G7 also agreed to reduce reliance on China for critical minerals and
discussed artificial intelligence with tech executives.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-18 16:08:48

The U.N. says Israeli settler groups could be added to a global blacklist for
violations against children.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres made the warning in the U.N.'s annual
Children and Armed Conflict report.

The report says violations against Palestinian children rose sharply in 2025.

It says the U.N. verified the killing of 2-thousand-668 Palestinian children
in Gaza and 57 in the West Bank.

The report attributes more than 9-thousand violations to Israeli forces and
326 to Israeli settlers.

It also keeps Hamas' armed wing and affiliated groups on the blacklist.

Guterres says settler groups could be listed if high numbers of violations
continue this year.

Being blacklisted does not bring automatic sanctions, but it can damage a
group's reputation.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-18 16:08:48

And, in the US, new data shows that only about half of US adults had access
to affordable, quality healthcare in 2025.

Inflation and rising medical costs have led to burdensome health expenses
across multiple demographics, particularly for younger individuals and women.

In the survey, around 75% of adults reported healthcare costs as either a
major or minor financial burden, and more than half said that such costs
result in "a lot" of or "some" stress to their daily lives.

Several respondents have even described having to sacrifice their personal
expenses in order to cover the costs of healthcare, often due to lack of
proper insurance coverage or affordable providers.

Posted on 2026-06-18 15:39:38

Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim is weighing in on the debate over whether or not
to abolish the Control Yuan, emphasising that the Constitution grants the
Control Yuan the power of oversight.

She says that government actions should first adhere to the constitution
before carrying out constitutional reforms.

She added that she hopes the Legislative Yuan will review and approve
nominations put forward to fill slots in the Control Yuan by the president.

Following the presidential office's announcement of their nominations, the
TPP legislative caucus said that it would attempt to amend the constitution
to abolish the government watchdog.

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an also expressed his support for abolishing the
Control Yuan, going so far as to say that opposition legislators should use
their majority to reject all two dozen nominees, paralysing the Control
Yuan's operations.

Meanwhile, two of those named by the presidential office, both of the KMT,
rejected their nominations.

Hsiao says in remarks today that she hopes the Legislature will adhere to the
rule of law in reviewing the nominations.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-06-18 15:39:41

Shilin prosecutors have indicted two food companies and three people over
allegedly selling olive pomace oil as olive oil.

The defendants include a father and son surnamed Chen (陳), linked to Baocheng
Co. (堡晟) and Fengyuan Co. (楓緣).

Prosecutors say they imported olive pomace oil from Italy starting in October
2024.

The oil allegedly contained copper chlorophyll, which was not approved for
use in edible oil.

Prosecutors say the products were relabeled as Japanese pure olive oil and
premium olive oil.

They were then repacked into one-liter bottles and sold through distributors.

Prosecutors say these distributors were unaware of the deception.

The alleged illegal profit totaled more than 20-million NT.

Prosecutors are asking the court to confiscate the proceeds.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-18 15:39:41

Taiwan is set for intense summer heat through the Dragon Boat Festival
holiday and beyond.

Meteorologist Wu De-rong says from tomorrow through next Thursday, a Pacific
high pressure front will strengthen day by day, pushing temperatures
island-wide above 38 degrees under clear summer skies.

Mountain areas may see brief afternoon showers.

Looking further ahead, Wu says a weather front associated with the final wave
of the plum rain season is expected to approach between June 25th and 27th.

He also says a separate tropical disturbance developing east of the
Philippines around June 20th and 21st is being tracked by forecasters.

Most models suggest it will curve northeast toward waters south of Japan
rather than approaching Taiwan, but experts are watching the system closely.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-06-18 15:39:41

As we broadcast earlier, the United States and Iran have signed an agreement
to end the war in Iran.

The Strait of Hormuz will be reopened, Iran will not buy nuclear weapons, and
the U.S. will end economic sanctions against Iran.

Iran will also receive $300 billion US (9 trillion NT) for its economic
reconstruction.

A final deal will be reached within a provisional deadline of 60 days,
subject to extensions agreed to by both parties.

A meeting in Switzerland between high-level US and Iranian officians is
scheduled for tomorrow, but it is now unclear whether that will still take
place.

Posted on 2026-06-18 15:39:41

An 18-year-old man, believed to be a tourist from India, has passed away
after falling off a horse-drawn carriage in New York City’s Central Park.

Police said that the carriage’s driver got off in order to take a picture of
the passengers.

The horse then ran off, whereupon it hit another carriage and toppled over.

A union representative said that it appeared that the driver was more than an
arm’s length away from the horse, going against procedure.

This comes a week after another horse in Central Park ate toxic plants and
died.

New York City’s mayor, Zohran Mamdani, said that he supports the removal of
all horses from Central Park, and a bill currently under consideration by the
city would phase out all horses in the park within two years.

Posted on 2026-06-18 15:39:41

A massive ancient oak tree linked to the legend of Robin Hood may have been
loved to death.

The 1200-year-old Major Oak in Sherwood Forest is believed to have died after
it didn’t sprout leaves this spring.

Visitors to the forest over the past two centuries have compressed the soil
around it, preventing rain from reaching the tree’s roots.

The Major Oak is said to have sheltered Robin Hood, the legendary
13th-century bandit who stole from the rich and gave to the poor, as he was
pursued by the Sheriff of Nottingham.

But even in death, the tree will remain a protected national monument.

Posted on 2026-06-18 14:08:14

The Executive Yuan is proposing a special budget for drones, after a previous
special budget passed by the legislature failed to include funds for drones.

The latest special budget includes a budget ceiling of 210 billion NT for
spending through 2031.

The Executive Yuan has set aside the funds for both surveillance and
reconnaissance drones as well as attack drones.

The proposal comes after the legislature cut out funds for developing the
domestic drone industry...

prompting blowback from the DPP as well as even some blue camp figures.

Premier Zhuo Rong Tai says, he hopes that Taiwan can use local materials and
domestic production and maintenance to build up its drone defense
capabilities.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-06-18 14:08:16

China Airlines will cut fuel surcharges for cargo exports from Taiwan by more
than 20 percent from July 1.

The reduction follows two straight months of increases, as oil prices have
moved lower.

For cargo sent to Europe and the Americas, the charge will fall from 84 NT to
62 NT per kilogram.

That is a drop of about 26 percent.

For cargo sent to Asia, the charge will drop from 29 NT to 21 NT per kilogram.

That is a reduction of about 27-and-a-half percent.

China Airlines says the new rates were calculated from its average fuel
purchase costs and filed with the Civil Aeronautics Administration.

Last month, cargo surcharges rose slightly even as passenger fuel surcharges
fell, partly because cargo demand from the AI sector remained strong.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-18 14:08:16

The landmark rock musical "Jesus Christ Superstar" makes its Taiwan debut
this week, bringing a celebrated revival production to Taipei.

The show, created by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice and first staged in
1971, is widely credited with pioneering the rock musical format.

Songs including "Superstar", "I Don't Know How to Love Him", and others have
become standards of the musical theater repertoire.

And according to organizers, this touring production, led by British producer
David Ian, combines the show's original musical vision with contemporary
staging technology.

Four performances will run at the National Theater Hall from June 18th to
21st.

(N)S

Posted on 2026-06-18 14:08:16

Taiwan shares are up today, with the benchmark tai ex gaining 548 points to
close the session at 46425.

The turnover was 1.255 trillion NT.

Posted on 2026-06-18 14:08:16

Now turning to international news...

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's job may be on the line in a special
election today.

Voters in Makerfield are choosing a new lawmaker, with Andy Burnham of the
Labor Party leading the polls.

If he is elected as a Member of Parliament, Burnham is likely to challenge
Starmer for party leadership.

Starmer's popularity has dropped since a 2024 landslide victory due to a slow
economy and several political missteps.

Burnham, on the other hand, has won praise over his nine years as mayor of
Greater Manchester...

and has pledged to change national politics if he wins today's vote.

A Burnham win could pressure Starmer to resign, while a victory for Burnham's
opponent of the far-right Reform UK would be a major loss for Labor.

The results of the by-election are due tomorrow.

Posted on 2026-06-18 11:50:13

Taiwan could move as soon as next week to sharply tighten controls on
e-cigarettes.

Health Minister Shih Chung-liang (石崇良) says a draft legal amendment may pass
the Cabinet before going to lawmakers.

The bill would add criminal liability for manufacturing and importing
e-cigarettes, not just administrative fines.

It would also punish possession, with products confiscated and heavy fines
possible.

Education officials say campus reports involving students carrying or using
e-cigarettes have surged.

Cases rose from 237 in 2023 to 1-thousand-692 in 2025.

This year, more than 1-thousand cases had already been reported by the end of
May.

Shih also warned that etomidate vape pods are drugs, not tobacco, and said
the government will strengthen campus enforcement.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-18 11:50:13

The Ministry of National Defense reports eight Chinese naval vessels
operating around Taiwan from 6 a.m. Wednesday to 6 a.m. today.

No Chinese military aircraft were detected during the same period.

Taiwan's armed forces used mission aircraft, ships, and shore-based missile
systems to monitor the situation.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-18 11:50:13

Din Tai Fung will raise prices on some menu items from Monday, citing higher
operating costs.

The restaurant chain says the average increase is expected to be about 5
percent.

Its famous xiaolongbao will rise from 28 NT to 29 NT each.

Shrimp fried rice with egg will rise from 300 NT to 320 NT.

Shrimp and pork wontons in spicy red oil will rise from 230 NT to 240 NT.

Side dishes will rise from 120 NT to 130 NT.

Din Tai Fung says raw material and labor costs have continued to rise.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-18 11:50:14

Health workers in eastern Congo are struggling to contain an Ebola outbreak
one month after the WHO declared an international emergency.

Reuters reports the outbreak has passed 800 confirmed cases.

Aid workers say the true number may be higher because testing, contact
tracing and case follow-up remain limited.

The outbreak is centered in Ituri province, where the WHO says about
one-third of suspected case alerts are not being followed up.

Africa CDC says burial and decontamination teams have only a small share of
the staff and vehicles they need.

Officials also report shortages of ambulances, protective gear and materials
for isolation wards.

Congo's health minister says the government has trained community workers,
but response teams still face fuel shortages, insecurity and lost contacts.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-18 11:50:14

Russians President Vladimir Putin hosted leaders of the Association of
Southeast Asian Nations, seeking to bolster business and other ties with
members of the regional bloc.

A Kremlin official says the two-day Russia-ASEAN summit, which opened
Wednesday in the city of Kazan, is to explore ways to expand Russia’s
“strategic partnership” with countries from the regional bloc.

They include Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the
Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, East Timor and Vietnam.

ASEAN has maintained relations with Moscow as a “dialogue partner” and
engaged Russian officials in annual top-level meetings.
The summit in Kazan, on the Volga River, marks the 35th anniversary of
Russia-ASEAN relations.

Posted on 2026-06-18 11:50:14

Mexico City police have arrested a man accused of trying to rent out his
official World Cup accreditation online.

Authorities say the pass could have given someone unauthorized access to
stadium areas.

The 24-year-old suspect was detained near Azteca Stadium after he allegedly
tried to reactivate his credential.

Police say a legal representative for World Cup organizers alerted
authorities after finding the social media posts.

Officials did not say how much money the man was allegedly asking for.

Mexico City is hosting several matches during the expanded 48-team tournament.

The suspect has been sent to the public prosecutor's office, which will
decide his legal status.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-18 10:55:13

Taiwan Railways is adjusting train services this morning... after an
excavator overturned as workers were carrying out maintenance work.

Trains between Miaoli and Zhunan are forced to operate on a single track in
both directions... causing some passengers to wait for up to half an hour.

To maintain operational efficiency, six train services were suspended between
Miaoli and Zhunan.

TRA has apologized for the delays affecting northbound and southbound train
services between Miaoli and Zhunan.

Normal operations are expected to resume at 1:00 p.m.

Posted on 2026-06-18 10:55:16

A Taitung county councilor has been indicted for allegedly claiming more than
$4.68 million NT in public subsidies through fake staffing arrangements.

The Taitung District Prosecutors Office on Wednesday said councilor Wang
You-li listed four fictitious assistants in her accounts between December
2022 and April 2026, using the names of relatives and associates to obtain
publicly funded salaries intended for legislative aides.

Four other individuals were also indicted in connection with the case.

Wang, a KMT nominee for the upcoming Green Island township chief election,
denied wrongdoing.

She said she will continue her campaign, leaving her fate to voters.

(CNA - NS)

Posted on 2026-06-18 10:55:16

Poland's deputy defense minister says the U.S. is interested in establishing
a permanent military base in Poland.. as Washington rethinks its military
strategy for Europe.

This comes after the Polish government approved a proposal to invite the U.S.
to set up a base on NATO's eastern flank.

The base would be financed by both countries.

U.S. Defense Department officials have not confirmed any new developments.

Currently, around 10-thousand U.S. troops are stationed in Poland, mostly on
a rotational basis.

Posted on 2026-06-18 07:49:13

The Ministry of Justice has moved to reclassify etomidate as a Category 1
narcotic.

The change was made Wednesday by a ministry committee amid growing public
concern over drug-impaired driving incidents involving the substance, which
have caused multiple deaths and injuries in recent years.

The ministry says if the decision is formally approved and announced by the
Cabinet, those convicted of manufacturing, transporting or selling the drug
could face heavy prison sentences and the death penalty in the most serious
cases.

The committee also approved reclassifying eight related substances as
Category 1 narcotics, and designated two chemical precursors used in
synthesizing etomidate as controlled substances subject to tighter
regulation.

The Ministry of Justice said it would expedite administrative procedures
before submitting the proposal to the Cabinet for formal approval.

(CNA -NS)

Posted on 2026-06-18 07:49:13

The Presidential Office is expressing gratitude to Group of Seven leaders,
after their summit concluded with a joint statement opposing any forcible
change to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.

The G7 statement, issued at the conclusion of the summit in France,
reaffirmed opposition to unilateral attempts to change the status quo in the
East and South China Seas and across the Taiwan Strait, saying such issues
should only be resolved peacefully through dialogue.

Presidential Office spokesperson Karen Kuo said peace in the Taiwan Strait
has widespread support in the international community and is in the core
interest of the world.

She added that Taiwan will continue to strengthen its defense capabilities as
a responsible regional partner.

The G7 Summit ran from June 15th to 17th.

(CNA - NS)

Posted on 2026-06-17 20:07:13

New data suggests many disadvantaged children in Taiwan face food and
caregiving difficulties during school vacations.

It's from a recent survey by the Child Welfare League Foundation ...

... which found that one in five children have relied on snacks instead of
regular meals because school lunches are unavailable during the summer break.

Researchers also found that more than 13 percent of children are left home
alone during the vacation period, while nearly 30 percent take care of
younger siblings or sick family members.

The foundation says the loss of school meals, after-school care and learning
support can create significant challenges for vulnerable families.

More than half of respondents said their greatest wish was for no one in
their family to become ill, reflecting concerns about financial and
caregiving pressures.

The foundation says it plans to provide food assistance and summer programs
for thousands of children this year.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-06-17 20:07:15

Costco Taiwan says a food product linked to an E. coli outbreak in Japan has
never been sold at its stores in Taiwan.

The statement follows a suspected food poisoning incident involving a Mexican
wrap sold at a Costco warehouse store in Nagoya.

Japanese health authorities say five people became ill after eating the
product, with three requiring hospitalization.

Officials say all five tested positive for a particular strain of E. coli
bacteria ... and local health officials have suspected kitchen operations at
the affected store as they investigate.

Costco Taiwan added that similar items sold locally meet food safety
standards.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-06-17 20:07:15

Leaked documents have provided new details about a proposed agreement aimed
at ending the conflict between the United States and Iran.

According to reports, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and be allowed
to resume unrestricted oil sales once the interim agreement is signed.

The accord is expected to be formally signed in Switzerland on Friday.

Reports say the proposal also includes U-S support for rebuilding Iran and a
pathway toward lifting sanctions if a final agreement addressing Tehran's
nuclear program is reached.

Neither side has publicly released the full text of the agreement, and
details of the reported terms have not been independently verified.

Posted on 2026-06-17 17:17:13

The DPP nominee for Taipei Mayor says, claims that he is in favor of
integrating housing and workplaces are fake news.

That's after a KMT city councilor stated that Shen's strategy to alleviate
traffic in Neihu was to have people live in the same place that they work.

The candidate's office emphasizes today that Shen's website has a page
specifically dedicated to combating fake claims about him.

They noted that the fake claims stemmed from an interview Shen gave, in which
he said that there are solutions to the traffic issue, citing examples from
former Mayor Ke Wen Zhe and former Health Minister Chen Shi Zhong.

He also noted that future MRT expansions will alleviate the issue, but there
are still six years before then in which the problem will persist.

Shen added that there should be more affordable housing in Neihu that can
accomodate those that work in the area, prioritizing couples and young
professionals...

in addition to encouraging companies in Neihu to offer flexible working
hours.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-06-17 17:17:13

Taoyuan International Airport is urging passengers to arrive 3 hours ahead of
their flights during the upcoming Dragon Boat Festival holiday...

as they brace for record crowds during the long weekend.

They also encourage the use of self-service bag tagging and mobile check-in...

and advises passengers to double-check liquid and lithium battery regulations
before heading through security.

Between June 18th to 22nd, Taoyuan international airport is expecting to
average143,000 passengers a day.

It is expected to be the highest Dragon Boat holiday average on record,
surpassing numbers both last year and pre-pandemic peaks.

The single busiest day is expected to be Friday

(MW)

Posted on 2026-06-17 17:17:13

Chinese Historian Ge Zhaoguang 葛兆光 has been named the winner of the 2026 Tang
Prize in Sinology, becoming the first China-based scholar ever to receive the
honor.

The 76-year-old Fudan University professor was recognized for his decades of
work on Chinese history, including his studies on the question "What is
China?"

The Tang Prize Selection Committee praised his mastery of ancient Chinese
thought, saying his influence has reached far beyond China into other regions
of the world.

In a recent interview, Ge said studying Chinese history gave him a chance at
what he called "rebirth".

He didn't pursue higher education until his late twenties, eventually
studying classical philology at Peking University.

He said Sinologists carry a mission to help the world better understand China
through its history and culture.

The Tang Prize comes with a cash award of 40 million NTD, plus an additional
10 million for research funding.

Posted on 2026-06-17 17:17:13

And in Latin America, rising crime and extortion have fueld support for
conservative populists who pledge storm-arm tactics against crime and
immigration.

That's a marked change from the beginning of the decade, when progressive
politicians gained power by running on inequities exacerbated by the
pandemic.

Experts say tactics populaized by far-right leaders have gained traction
despite concerns that they could encourage human rights abuses or threaten
democracy.

In countries like Colombia, Peru, and Chile, conservative candidates have
surged by promising quick security solutions...

even if it means sacrificing democratic principles.

Posted on 2026-06-17 15:24:47

Taiwan's renewable power share could rise to 15 percent this year as offshore
wind power grows.

Economics Minister Kung Ming-hsin gave the estimate today at the
Legislature's Economics Committee.

He says renewables made up 13 percent of total power generation last year.

The comments came after TPP lawmaker Hung Yu-hsiang (洪毓祥) questioned the
government's renewable energy policies.

Hung raised concerns about project delays, solar panel oversight, and safety
rules for rooftop solar.

Kung says offshore wind contracts were awarded through bidding and will be
handled according to contract rules.

The Energy Administration says imported solar equipment can be installed if
it meets required standards.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-17 15:24:47

Immigration officers have rescued five Thai nationals from a suspected human
trafficking ring in Taiwan.

The National Immigration Agency says the group used false online job ads to
recruit people from remote areas of Thailand.

Authorities say some victims sold property or borrowed money to pay high
brokerage fees.

But after arriving in Taiwan, they were allegedly sent to do illegal labor
across the country.

Investigators say some victims had their passports withheld and were forced
to work long hours for low pay.

A task force rescued the five people from mountain farms and seized 47
passports.

Officials estimate the group made nearly 4-million NT in criminal proceeds.

Twenty-two suspects have been referred to prosecutors for alleged human
trafficking and employment law violations.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-17 15:24:47

Southern Taiwan's blood supply has fallen to urgent levels after days of
heavy rain kept donors away.

The Kaohsiung Blood Center says the region is nearly 6-thousand bags short of
expected donations.

It says the overall blood supply is down to 4.4 days.

Type O blood is the tightest, with only 2.9 days left.

The center says southern Taiwan needs about 1-thousand-900 bags of blood each
day for medical use.

Officials say a shortfall could affect surgeries, trauma care, and patients
who need long-term transfusions.

Supplies are falling in Chiayi, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Pingtung, Penghu, and
Taitung.

The center says healthy people can donate if they have not been sick, taken
medicine, or received injections in the past two weeks.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-17 15:24:47

South Korea will narrow a restricted civilian zone near its border with North
Korea.

Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back says the change reflects better military
readiness and years of requests from local residents.

The Civilian Control Line currently runs as far as 10 kilometers south of the
military border.

The new plan will shift the line by an average of 6 kilometers from that
border.

Civilians need military approval to enter the area, where about 20-thousand
people reportedly live.

Others enter the zone for farming or work.

The Defense Ministry also plans to ease some border-area rules, including
drone reporting rules for farming.

The move comes as President Lee Jae Myung's government works to reduce
tensions, while North Korea keeps a hostile stance.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-17 15:24:47

China is calling for emerging markets to have more representation at the
United Nations.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the comments in Beijing as China released a
white paper on global governance.

Wang said countries of all sizes and levels of development should be treated
as equal members of the international community.

He said the UN's authority is facing pressure from growing political and
economic disputes.

Wang also said global crises are becoming more connected and more dangerous.

He called for a ceasefire in the Middle East and support for what he called a
sustainable security framework in the region.

Reuters says China often presents itself as a peacemaker in the Middle East
and Ukraine conflicts.

China is also the biggest buyer of Iranian and Russian oil.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-17 15:14:13

G7 leaders have opposed unilateral attempts to change the status quo in the
Taiwan Strait.

A leaders' statement issued at the summit in France also mentioned the East
China Sea and South China Sea.

The statement says such disputes should only be resolved peacefully through
dialogue.

It did not name China, but stressed the importance of a free and open
Indo-Pacific based on the rule of law.

The G7 statement also covered tensions in the Middle East, Russia's invasion
of Ukraine, and North Korea's weapons programs.

Leaders said they support keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and expanding
military aid to Ukraine.

The Yomiuri Shimbun says the G7 is trying to show unity as regional tensions
rise.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-17 15:14:13

A Miaoli elementary student has been rescued after drifting out to sea while
playing hooky.

County officials say the boy in fourth grade slipped away from school
yesterday without notifying anyone and made his way alone to the beach near
the Zhonggang River mouth in Houlong.

An alert angler spotted him wandering alone on the beach, climbing onto a
piece of styrofoam and floating out onto the water.

The fisherman called the Coast Guard, and personnel brought the boy back to
safety conscious and uninjured.

Officials say schools have been reminded to strengthen water safety education.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-06-17 15:14:13

Campus safety reports involving students carrying or using e-cigarettes have
surged nearly sevenfold in three years.

TPP lawmaker Tsai Chun-chou (蔡春綢) says authorities should trace the sources
and cut off supply channels.

Tsai says there were 237 reported cases in 2023, rising to 1-thousand-692
last year.

This year, schools had already reported 1-thousand-50 cases by the end of May.

Tsai says some vape cartridges may be used to disguise emerging drugs,
including so-called "zombie vape cartridges."

The Ministry of Education says local governments have been asked to include
student tobacco cases in campus safety reports.

It says schools should notify parents, provide anti-smoking education, and
refer students for medical help when needed.

Health officials say payment and pickup records can help trace e-cigarette
products back to underground factories.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-17 15:14:13

Now turning to international news...

US President Donald Trump appears to be testing his relationship with Israeli
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over an agreement to end the two countries'
war in Iran.

Speaking at the G7 summit, Trump said he let Israel know he wasn't happy
about recent Israeli attacks in Lebanon, ahead of plans to sign an agreement
later this week over hostilities with Iran.

Trump has recently displayed more of an adversarial relationship towards
Israel, claiming credit for Israel's existence and calling Netanyahu "crazy."

Netanyahu's tenure as prime minister has overlapped with those of 4 US
presidents, but Trump is the first to so openly criticize the US ally.

There has long been a bipartisan consensus around support Israel in the White
House, but liberals are increasingly unhappy with Israel's treatment of
Palestinians...

while conservatives question continued financial support for a foreign
country.

Posted on 2026-06-17 15:14:13

An exhibition in Romania’s capital highlights the harsh reality of
interrogations by the country's notorious communist-era secret police.

Held at the National History Museum of Romania in Bucharest, the exhibition
features video recordings from 1989 of interrogations by the Securitate.

The exhibition includes a reconstructed cell, emphasizing the isolation
detainees felt.

Organizers describe it as a “memorial plaque” to victims.

The exhibition is a collaboration between the museum, Romania’s National
Council for Studying the Securitate Archives, and the Ministry of Culture.

As nationalism and nostalgia for life under communism rise in Romania, the
exhibition aims to expose the realities of that period and prevent history
from repeating itself.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-06-17 15:14:13

Lionel Messi delivered his first World Cup hat trick - three goals in one
match by one player - and matched Miroslav Klose's (Mee roh slahv KLOH-zuh)
career scoring record in Argentina's match against Algeria on Tuesday night.

The defending champions went on to win 3-0.

Messi scored his first goal in the opening minutes, the second early in the
second half, and the third just before subbing out.

The performance came 20 years after his World Cup debut, when Messi also
scored.

Messi now has 16 goals in six World Cup appearances.

His hat trick upstaged stars like Kylian Mbappé (Kee-lee-an M-bah-PAY) and
Erling Haaland (AIR-ling HAW-lan), who each scored twice in their matches
earlier Tuesday.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-06-17 14:15:14

The DPP is naming the Penghu magistrate's wife to run in his stead...

as Chen Guang-fu remains hospitalized.

The party's Election Strategy Committee announced today that they would
nominate Wu Shu Jin 吳淑瑾to run in Chen's place.

Chen had already received the DPP's blessing to run for re-election when he
fell, hitting his head, back in Feburary.

He's been hospitalized since then.

DPP Spokesperson Wu Zheng said that the party is rooting for Chen's speedy
recovery...

adding that Wu Shi Jin's nomination will be confirmed at a press conference
later today.

Meanwhile, the KMT's pick to lead Penghu, Chen Zhen Zhong 陳振中, says he
welcomes Wu's decision to take over and believe the family has made
arrangements for the magistrate's medical care...

putting their full effort behind the election campaign.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-06-17 14:15:15

New Taipei police arrested a man within four minutes today after a bank
robbery in Banqiao.

Police say the suspect entered Taishin Bank's Bannan Branch with scissors.

The robbery was reported at 10:15 this morning on Guanqian (館前) East Road.

Officers rushed to the scene after the emergency report and quickly subdued
and arrested the suspect.

No one was injured at the scene.

Police are investigating whether Wang had accomplices or planned the robbery
in advance.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-17 14:15:16

Taiwan shares are down today, with the benchmark tai ex losing 93 points to
close the session at 45716.

The turnover was 1.039 trillion NT

Posted on 2026-06-17 14:15:16

Germany and Poland are expected to sign a new defense agreement to strengthen
military cooperation amidst tensions with Russia.

The relationship between the neighbors has been historically strained but are
becoming closer due to Russia's war on Ukraine.

As the US appears to reduce its military presence in Europe, Poland wants
European allies to play a bigger role in defending the continent's east...

while Germany seeks partners to revitalize its military.

Poland is a logisitics hub for Ukraine, and its growing economy and heavy
defense investment have made it a compelling partner for Germany and other
European partners.

The agreement includes plans for cooperation in the Baltic Sea region and
military innovation...

but it does not include mutual security guarantees, reflecting ongoing
historical tensions between the two countries.

Posted on 2026-06-17 14:15:16

African nations are calling for the swift implementation of a landmark treaty
protecting the ocean.

The treaty aims to protect 30% of the world's oceans by 2030.

Currently, US officials say only 10% of the world's oceans are protected.

The call comes as the 11th Our Ocean Conference takes place in Kenya, in the
first time that the conference is being hosted in an African nation.

The event focuses on ocean issues like climate change and pollution.

Meanwhile, Taiwan has withdrawn from the event after two delegation members
were denied entry to a fringe event and detained by immigration authorities
due to Chinese pressure.

Posted on 2026-06-17 12:42:14

The Ministry of National Defense says it will find ways to fund its drone
program even after the legislature slashed the budget.

Deputy Defense Minister Hsu Szu-chien 徐斯儉 says today that demand for drone
and counter-drone capabilities is only growing.

He calls them "indispensable" on the modern battlefield.

This comes as the legislature recently passed just over 60% of the Executive
Yuan's original proposal for additional defense spending over the next 8
years.

Notably cut was funding for the development of Taiwan's domestic drone
industry, a move that DPP lawmakers called hard to understand.

This comes as KMT figures like Taichung Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen have publicly
championed making Taichung a hub for drone manufacturing.

The Deputy Defense Minister added that his ministry will pursue multiple
funding routes to fill the gap.

Those include supplementary budgets, next year's annual budget, and
potentially a new special budget.

President Lai Ching-te has said the cabinet will propose another special act
to keep defense development on track.

(MW)

Posted on 2026-06-17 12:42:14

We're heading into a sunny and very hot Dragon Boat Festival long weekend as
rain systems weaken.

Weather expert Daniel Wu says a stationary front is weakening today, and the
southwest monsoon will weaken tomorrow.

He says Taiwan will still see unstable air today, with afternoon convection
and hot conditions when rain stops.

The Central Weather Administration says Taitung County could see foehn winds
and temperatures above 36 degrees Celsius.

Wu says the Pacific high pressure system will strengthen from Friday through
June 24.

That means most areas will be sunny and hot, with only brief afternoon
showers possible in mountain areas.

A final plum rain front may approach next week Thursday and Friday, but
forecast models still differ.

(PB)

Posted on 2026-06-17 12:42:14

In international news,

In Canada, Toronto police have linked multiple shootings, including one at
the U.S. Consulate in March, to complex gun-for-hire networks.

The police chief says young adults are being recruited through encrypted
messaging apps to carry out attacks.

Some firearms used in these shootings have been seized.

A veteran officer was killed last week during a related raid.

Toronto police, along with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the FBI, are
investigating who is funding these attacks.

The networks have also targeted synagogues in the city.

Two firearms involved in over 25 shootings originated in the U.S.

A suspect remains hospitalized, and another is wanted in connection with the
consulate shooting.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-06-17 12:42:14

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has visited Haiti, where surging gang
violence has left more than 1 in 10 people homeless.

New statistics released by the U.N. reveal that so far this year across
Haiti, 1.5 million people have been displaced, 2,300 have been killed, and
another 100 kidnapped.

Among those abducted is the Defense Ministry's cabinet director, who was
kidnapped last week in one of the few relatively safe areas of the capital.

Guterres’s one-day visit Tuesday to Port-au-Prince came as gang violence
persists and the prime minister faces increasing pressure to hold elections.

The country of nearly 12 million people hasn’t had a president since Jovenel
Moïse (zhov nel moh EEZ) was killed at his private residence in July 2021.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-06-17 12:42:14

In Indonesia, a 6.7 magnitude earthquake has shaken Sulawesi island, killing
at least one resident and injuring dozens of people.

The quake Tuesday damaged homes and infrastructure and rattled residents in
Palu, a city devastated by a quake and tsunami eight years ago.

Several hospitals evacuated patients outdoors as a safety measure.

The National Disaster Management Agency reported at least 109 people have
been displaced, while 32 people were reported injured, including eight with
serious injuries in Sigi Regency, the hardest hit area.

Aftershocks followed, but no tsunami.

Indonesia is crossed by several seismic faults, and earthquakes and volcanic
activity are common.

(KK)

Posted on 2026-06-17 10:47:13

The Taiwan Research Institute has raised its forecast of Taiwan's gross
domestic product (GDP) growth to 9.33 percent for 2026, citing robust global
demand for AI applications.

TRI said its new forecast represented a significant upgrade from the previous
estimate of 3.46 percent that the institution made at the end of last
year.... and comes even as the global economy faced military conflicts in the
Middle East, which have pushed up crude prices and inflationary pressure.

Growth is expected to drive demand seen in the local semiconductor and ICT
industries resulting from significant AI development.

The 9.33 percent forecast is close to a similar upbeat forecast by the
Directorate General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics, which raised its
prediction to 9.64 percent in May.

Posted on 2026-06-17 10:47:13

The Centers for Disease Control says a dengue fever cluster at Kaohsiung
Municipal Min-Sheng Hospital has been confirmed as linked to an imported case
from Vietnam.

A localized dengue cluster emerged at Min-Sheng Hospital after five
inpatients tested positive for dengue fever on June 12-th.

As of Monday, the cluster totaled six cases, with no new infections reported.

The CDC has since expanded testing to more than 1,400 people at the hospital,
including staff, inpatients and those who were recently discharged.

There is currently no evidence of broader community transmission, and
monitoring will continue until July 12-th.

Posted on 2026-06-17 10:47:13

A Taiwanese research team has discovered a novel strategy to revive worn-out
immune cells in cancer patients.

The treatment offers a breakthrough for people who have become resistant to
current immunotherapy treatments.

The team said that while modern immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer
treatment by waking up frontline immune cells burned out by long-term tumor
exposure, a significant number of patients still fail to respond or build up
resistance.

Recharging these permanently exhausted T cells has become one of the biggest
challenges in oncology -- one that the NTUH team set out to tackle directly.

The NTUH team comprises researchers from the National Taiwan University
College of Medicine and Academia Sinica.

Posted on 2026-06-17 10:47:14

The U.S. Senate has again blocked the latest Democratic-led effort to end the
Iran war until it is authorized by Congress.

Its the ninth by Democrats since Israel and the United States began their
air ‌attacks on Iran in February.

The Senate voted by 48-47 to block the resolution under the war powers law,
which followed a framework agreement announced this week by the White House
and Tehran for a further ceasefire and talks to end the conflict.

The vote came as lawmakers waited for President Donald Trump's administration
to provide them with details about a memorandum of understanding announced
by Trump on Sunday to end the war.

Posted on 2026-06-17 10:47:14

One person died and 38, injured after a 6.7-magnitude earthquake hit
Indonesia's Sulawesi island on Tuesday.

The quake struck on Tuesday morning, with the epicentre recorded about 42 km
(26 miles) to the southeast of the town of Palu at a depth of 10 km.

Government officials reported damage on the road connecting three regions in
Central Sulawesi province.

The ‌quake also damaged places of worship, bridges and offices, as well as 67
homes.

It did not trigger a tsunami.

Posted on 2026-06-16 19:46:13

Prize laureates

Three scientists whose work helped transform immune cells into powerful
cancer treatments have been named recipients of the 2026 Tang Prize in
Biopharmaceutical Science.

Steven A. Rosenberg, Michel Sadelain and Carl H. June were recognized for
developing immunotherapies that use a patient's own immune cells to fight
cancer.

The Tang Prize committee says their work has revolutionized treatment for a
range of blood cancers and solid tumors.

In interviews ahead of the announcement, the three researchers highlighted
the importance of perseverance, unconventional thinking and a commitment to
helping patients.

They also described years of setbacks and skepticism before their therapies
eventually proved successful.

The Tang Prize is awarded every two years to honor major achievements in
fields including sustainable development, biopharmaceutical science, sinology
and the rule of law.

Posted on 2026-06-16 19:46:14

A Taiwan Creative Content Agency-organized pavilion will return to the Seoul
International Book Fair later this month, featuring 160 titles from 55
publishers.

Organizers say the event aims to build on the strong sales and publishing
rights deals generated when Taiwan served as the fair's guest of honor last
year.

TAICCA Chairperson Sue Wang says Taiwan's publishing industry is receiving
growing international recognition, pointing to the recent International
Booker Prize win for Taiwan Travelogue.

A number of Taiwanese authors will take part in events during the fair,
including Li Ang, Hu Mu-ching, Liglav A-wu and Lai Ma.

The Taipei Book Fair Foundation will also operate a separate pavilion focused
on cultural exchanges between Taiwan and South Korea.

The Seoul International Book Fair runs from June 24 through June 28.

Posted on 2026-06-16 19:46:15

In local sports news,

Houston Astros right-hander Teng Kai-wei (鄧愷威) and Detroit Tigers infielder
Lee Hao-yu (李灝宇) made Major League Baseball history yesterday by becoming the
first Taiwanese pitcher and batter to face each other in an MLB game.

The pair matched up twice, with Teng striking out Lee in their first
encounter before Lee responded with a base hit the second time.

Lee finished with two hits and the first stolen base of his Major League
career as Detroit defeated Houston 9-3.

Despite taking the loss, Teng recorded a career-high nine strikeouts and
became only the fourth Taiwanese pitcher to reach 100 career strikeouts in
the majors.

Posted on 2026-06-16 19:46:15

In international sports news,

Tennis stars Serena Williams and Venus Williams will reunite as a doubles
team at Wimbledon after receiving a wild card entry to the tournament.

The All England Club announced the invitation ahead of this year's
championships, which begin in less than two weeks.

The appearance comes after Serena Williams recently returned to competition
following a nearly four-year absence from professional tennis.

The sisters are one of the most successful doubles partnerships in tennis
history, winning 14 Grand Slam titles together, including six at Wimbledon.

Their most recent Wimbledon doubles title came 10 years ago.

Posted on 2026-06-16 18:12:13

The Legislative Yuan has approved amendments to the Waste Disposal Act that
significantly increase penalties for illegal dumping and other environmental
offenses.

Under the changes, offenders could face up to seven years in prison and fines
of up to $15 million NT.

The law also gives authorities new high-tech tools to track waste shipments
and crack down on illegal dumping.

Penalties can be increased further if violations occur in environmentally
sensitive areas.

The amendments also give authorities greater powers to freeze assets and
recover environmental cleanup costs from offenders.

Environmental officials say the changes are aimed at strengthening
enforcement, improving waste management and supporting the development of a
circular economy.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-06-16 18:12:14

The head of Taiwan's Intellectual Property Office says two companies
currently suing T-S-M-C for patent infringement appear to be so-called
'patent trolls'.

T-I-P-O Director General Liao Cheng-wei (廖承威) says the two Irish firms are
seeking licensing fees or settlement payments rather than producing products
based on the patents in question.

The companies have filed a complaint with the U-S International Trade
Commission, accusing T-S-M-C of using their patented technology in chip
production.

Liao says T-S-M-C is challenging the validity of the patents through the U-S
patent review process.

He also expressed confidence in the chipmaker's research capabilities and
intellectual property portfolio.

The case remains under review by U-S authorities.

(CNA_IG)

Posted on 2026-06-16 18:12:15

Seven protected sea turtles have been released back into the ocean in Penghu
as part of activities marking World Sea Turtle Day today.

The turtles, including one hawksbill and six green sea turtles, had
previously been rescued after suffering injuries or becoming stranded due to
rough weather or ill health.

Officials say the animals were treated and rehabilitated before being cleared
for release at Shili Beach.

More than 100 teachers and students joined local officials to watch the
turtles return to the sea despite rainy and windy weather.

The event also included educational activities aimed at promoting marine
conservation and protecting endangered wildlife.

Officials say Penghu has cared for nearly 700 protected sea turtles since
establishing its rescue center in 1997, with more than 400 successfully
returned to the wild.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-06-16 17:07:13

Cancer support groups in Taiwan are urging the government to include
psychological counseling under National Health Insurance coverage.

The Taiwan Breast Cancer Alliance cited research by National Taiwan
University Hospital showing that people diagnosed with cancer face a
significantly higher risk of suicide than the general population,
particularly during the first three months after diagnosis.

Advocates say the findings highlight the need for stronger mental health
support throughout cancer treatment and recovery.

While government agencies and organizations such as the "Hope Foundation for
Cancer Care" and the "Formosa Cancer Foundation" already offer counseling
services ...

... the groups say many patients do not realize help is available when they
are coping with treatment decisions and the emotional impact of a diagnosis.

They add that limited capacity, travel distance, appointment procedures and
financial concerns can all make professional support more difficult to
obtain.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-06-16 17:07:13

Prosecutors in Chiayi have indicted four people in connection with the fatal
beating of a homeless man near Taiwan Railway's Chiayi Station during the
Lunar New Year holiday,

The victim and the four defendants were all homeless individuals who had been
sheltering in a nearby underpass, when an altercation involving money led to
two rounds of assault.

The victim was found around an hour later, having sustained fatal blunt force
trauma to the head causing severe brain injury.

Three defendants charged with causing death by assault and one facing the
lesser charge of assault.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-06-16 17:07:13

A car crash near Taipei Arena caused a temporary power outage in the
surrounding area earlier today.

Police say they received reports of the crash shortly before 11 a.m.

A man in his 70s was driving westbound on Section 4 of Nanjing East Road when
he apparently became unwell and lost control of his vehicle.

The car struck a power distribution box on the median strip, temporarily
cutting electricity to nearby residences.

Authorities say no injuries were reported.

Police have ruled out both drunk and drugged driving as factors in the crash.

Investigators are continuing to determine the cause of the crash and who was
responsible.

Posted on 2026-06-16 17:07:13

Iran's foreign minister says any end to the conflict with Israel should also
include an end to Israel's presence in southern Lebanon.

Iranian state media quoted Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi as telling foreign
diplomats that Israel's continued presence in the area would violate the
memorandum of understanding reached between the United States and Iran.

However, details of the reported agreement have not yet been released
publicly.

Posted on 2026-06-16 17:07:13

A man has been found guilty of carrying out a series of arson attacks in
London linked to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Authorities say the attacks were allegedly directed by a figure known only as
"El Money," who recruited the attacker online.

While the individual who carried out the attacks has been convicted,
investigators have not identified those behind the plot.

Security analysts say the case bears similarities to other suspected
Russian-backed sabotage operations in Europe.

However, officials say proving direct involvement by Moscow remains difficult.

Posted on 2026-06-16 16:07:13

The Ministry of Health and Welfare is launching expanded services for seniors
living alone.

Health Minister Shih Chung-liang says the program covers not only seniors
living entirely alone, but also those whose spouse living with them is also
aged 65 or above, those whose cohabitants are unable to provide care, and
those whose adult children do not live in the same county or city.

Shih says government outreach visits will be completed within two years, and
all identified individuals placed into one of four risk tiers receiving care
at different frequencies.

And services range from routine welfare check visits and meal delivery, to
emergency response device subsidies and functional assessments to connect
seniors with appropriate medical or social welfare resources.

The central government is investing $6.25 billion NT over the next two years
to expand services for elderly people living alone, as the island's
super-aged society brings a surge in older adults without nearby family
support.

(NS)

Posted on 2026-06-16 16:07:13

Taiwanese authorities have announced one of the country's largest drug busts
in recent years ... after seizing 280 kilograms of heroin and 354 kilograms
of ketamine.

The Investigation Bureau put the street value of those narcotics at 10.3
billion NT.

The bureau says the heroin seized exceeded the total amount confiscated over
the previous three years combined, making it one of the most significant
anti-drug busts.

It also says the operation, which took place in early December last year, was
a collaboration between Taiwan's law enforcement agencies and the U-S Drug
Enforcement Administration.

Taiwan's task force boarded the fishing vessel and seized the drugs hidden
under frozen fish, and arrested 10 fishermen onboard, including three
Taiwanese nationals and seven foreign crew members.

The bureau says the case highlights the importance of intelligence sharing
and international cooperation in combating drug trafficking.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-06-16 16:07:13

U.S. allies are proposing a naval mission to ensure safe navigation through
the Strait of Hormuz.

This follows an initial deal to end the Iran war.

The French-British-led plan includes removing explosive mines and possibly
providing military escorts for vessels.

U.S. President Donald Trump says he doesn’t see a need for much help but that
a ship or two might be welcome.

The proposed mission aims to reassure crews and insurers about the safety of
the waterway.

France's aircraft carrier, Charles de Gaulle, is already in the region.

Allies have experience with escort missions, having previously defended ships
in the Red Sea.

Posted on 2026-06-16 16:07:13

A 6.7 magnitude earthquake has shaken part of central Indonesia and caused
scattered damage.

The strong shaking today sent people fleeing into open areas in and around
Palu, a city of about 400,000 people and the capital of Central Sulawesi
province.

Several hospitals evacuated patients outdoors as a safety measure.

Images from the area showed heavily damaged structures with partially
collapsed roofs, shattered walls and debris scattered across the streets.

Authorities were still gathering information on casualties.

Posted on 2026-06-16 11:08:14

KMT Chair Cheng Li Wen has returned from her trip to the US, and was mum upon
her arrival as to any takeaways from the trip.

When reporters asked the chair about the results of her over two-week-long
trip, Cheng just wished the crowd a good morning and thanked them.

Cheng and her delegation arrived at Taoyuan International Airport at just
past 5 this morning.

She departed for the US on the first of the month, visiting cities on both
the east and west coast.

(AH)

Posted on 2026-06-16 11:08:15

The Food and Drug Administration is confirming that a contaminated infant
formula in the US was not imported into Taiwan.

The product came under scrutiny after three cases of infant botulism were
reported in the US.

The US CDC found that all three affected infants had consumed the formula.

Taiwanese officials say that there are no import records for the product over
the past three years.

According to the U.S. FDA, the three illnesses began between April and May
2026.

Testing of the infant formula in question and related investigations remain
ongoing.

Posted on 2026-06-16 11:08:20

The winner of the 2026 Tang Prize in Sustainable Development says, the win is
both surreal and deeply humbling.

Susan Solomon remarked on past Tang Price winners, saying that they were
"amazing people that she enormously respects."

Early in her career, Solomon made the breakthrough that explained the
Antarctic ozone hole.

Her discovery paved the way for international action on climate change
through the Montreal Protocol, which phased out ozone-depleting checmicals
and demonstrated that government, scientists, and the private sector could
work together to solve a crisis.

Solomon says, she hopes young people will draw strength from the world's
successes in solving environmental problems.

She urged young people to contemplate how they could benefit the Earth's
future.

Posted on 2026-06-16 11:08:20

Now turning to international news...

A key platform used by Cubans in the US to send remittances to relatives in
Cuba has ceased operations.

This comes as the US Trump administration sanctions aim to choke off
international support for Cuba's government and people.

Envioscuba.com announced that it has stopped taking orders.

The latest round of sanctions targets Cuba’s state-owned oil and gas company,
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel and GAESA,...

a business conglomerate run by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba that
owns a wide range of businesses, from car rentals and retail stores to
transportation companies.

Increasingly, it's the most vulnerable who are being punished as Cubans
endure shortages of food and medicine, nearly constant blackouts and stifling
heat.

Many have received help from family and friends in the U.S., who send money
and packages from Miami containing appliances, food, and clothing, or
purchase products online for delivery in Cuba.

Posted on 2026-06-16 11:08:21

Ukraine has officially started European Union membership negotiations, a long
process that requires political reforms while facing a Russian invasion.

Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka attended a conference in
Luxembourg to begin aligning with EU laws and values.

Ukraine views EU membership as a security guarantee, while NATO membership
remains unlikely.

This comes as Moldova also launched its membership talks.

Countries hoping to join the EU must complete negotiations in 35 policy
areas, a process that can take years.

Some European countries want Ukraine to join quickly, but EU officials insist
on a merits-based process.

Posted on 2026-06-15 19:00:13

Taipei Metro is partnering with Pokémon GO to celebrate the game's tenth
anniversary and the upcoming "Pokémon GO Fest 2026".

The transit operator has transformed Xinzhongshan Linear Park into a
Pokémon-themed attraction that is now open to visitors.

A warm-up event is scheduled for June 28th at Taipei Arena Plaza, while the
main celebration will take place at Xinzhongshan on July 11th and 12th.

Visitors can complete event challenges, pick up commemorative gifts and take
photos with a giant Mewtwo display.

Taipei Metro will also begin selling a Mewtwo-themed EasyCard on July 11th.

Additional promotions and prize giveaways are planned throughout the event.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-06-15 19:00:13

Health officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are reporting a
sharp increase in Ebola cases, with 72 new infections recorded in a single
day.

That brings the total number of confirmed cases to 782, including 181 deaths.

The outbreak was declared a month ago and is being complicated by weak
contact tracing efforts and funding shortages.

The World Health Organization and the Africa Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention are expanding support for the response.

Health officials say the outbreak involves the rare Bundibugyo strain of the
Ebola virus, for which there is no approved vaccine.

Ongoing conflict in Ituri Province is also hampering containment efforts as
large numbers of people continue to move around the region.

Posted on 2026-06-15 17:23:13

Kaohsiung City suspended work and classes in Taoyuan District this afternoon
due to ongoing heavy rain in the area.

Many districts have received over 120 millimeters of rainfall so far today.

Local officials say landslides and traffic disruptions have affected the
district's main access roads, raising concerns about public safety.

The Taoyuan District Office is warning that mountain roads remain at risk
from falling rocks, landslides and debris flows.

Residents are being urged to avoid hazardous roads, exercise caution while
traveling and monitor the latest disaster prevention information.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-06-15 17:23:13

Taipei police have arrested a man accused of organizing an illegal street
racing event on Yangmingshan.

Investigators say the gathering took place on the night of May 16th, when
dozens of modified motorcycles and vehicles met before heading into the
mountain area.

Police say officers later intercepted the group and identified more than 50
participants.

Authorities allege the 20-year-old suspect used social media to promote the
event and advertise a motorcycle modification business.

He has been referred to prosecutors on charges related to public endangerment.

Police say they will increase patrols and enforcement on roads around
Yangmingshan and other known gathering spots, particularly on Friday and
Saturday nights.

Posted on 2026-06-15 17:23:13

Capital Financial Group is expanding parental benefits for employees ... as
part of efforts to support families and address Taiwan's declining birth
rate.

The company says it is increasing paid maternity leave from eight weeks to 12
(weeks), with the change applying retroactively to employees whose children
were born on or after June 1.

Capital Financial is also extending childcare-related benefits to male
employees who take paternity leave or paternity checkup leave.

The company says the changes are intended to promote gender equality and
encourage fathers to take a more active role in raising children.

It says the expanded benefits are part of broader family-friendly workplace
policies that include flexible work arrangements and childcare support
programs.

(IG)

Posted on 2026-06-15 17:23:13

Israel's defense minister says Israeli forces will not withdraw from
territory seized in Lebanon.

The comments come as reports emerge that the United States and Iran have
reached a tentative peace deal aimed at ending their conflict and reopening
the Strait of Hormuz.

The deal, reportedly mediated by Pakistan, is expected to be signed in
Switzerland this Friday.

Reports say the deal includes measures to ensure shipping through the crucial
waterway and broader efforts to maintain a ceasefire in the region.

Iran has confirmed that an agreement has been reached, but says
implementation will not begin until the deal is formally signed.

The arrangement would also provide a 60-day window for further negotiations
on issues including Iran's nuclear program.

Some U-S lawmakers have already voiced concerns about the proposed agreement.

Posted on 2026-06-15 11:08:14

An HIV-positive man in Taichung has been indicted on charges including rape
resulting in serious bodily injury.

That's after he was linked to five women with HIV infetions.

The case came to light after a health bureau identified multiple HIV-positive
individuals linked to the same person during contact tracing.

Futher investigation uncovered suspected sexual offenses, prompting referrals
to authorities.

The man allegedly used religious rhetoric to deceive and exploit the women
involved.

Authorities note that concealing one's HIV-positive status and engaging in
unprotected sex resulting in the infection of others is punishable by up to
12 years in prison.

It's not clear if the suspect in this case knew he was HIV positive when he
allegedly assaulted the women.

The indicted man was indentified by local media as a school bus driver.

Posted on 2026-06-15 11:08:14

An Australian man won two events at the first ever Penghu Oceanman.

Thomas Gilbert won the 5 kilometer Half Oceanman race yesterday, after taking
the 10 kilometer win on Saturday as well.

In both races, swimmers started in the Guanyiting Recreation Area in Magong,
swam into the bay, and returned, covering different numbers of laps for their
respective distances.

1450 competitiors particiated in five events yesterday, four of which were
qualifying events for the international Oceanman World Final Championship in
November.

The annual competition, originally known as the Cross Penghu Bay Swim, was
upgraded to the two-day 2026 Penghu Oceanman this year.

A total of around 2,550 athletes from 23 countries, including Japan, the
United States, India, and Malaysia, competed in the waters of Penghu Bay
during the two-day event.

Posted on 2026-06-15 11:08:14

Now turning to international news...

Officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are reporting that
confirmed Ebola cases have increased to 782, with 181 deaths.

But the actual number is believed to be much higher, as the outbreak was only
confirmed weeks after it is believed to have begun.

The latest outbreak is caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus, which has no
approved vaccine or treatment.

The current fatality rate of the outbreak is 23%, with 56 people having
recovered.

The outbreak is concentrated in Congo’s eastern province of Ituri, which
accounts for more than 90% of the cases.

Cases have also been recorded in the North Kivu and South Kivu provinces, and
have spread across the border to Uganda.

Nearly a million people have been displaced by conflict in Ituri, making
contact tracing difficult as people flee attacks or move frequently in the
vast province with dense forests, poor roads and remote villages that can
take days to reach.

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