The Royal Thai Army releases images of landmines cleared by engineers from the 2nd Army Region in suspected areas along the Thai-Cambodia border on July 20, 2025, following the injury of three Thai soldiers who stepped on landmines on July 16.
TRAT — Thailand and Cambodia reached a landmark agreement Wednesday to jointly clear dangerous landmines along their shared border and gradually reopen key trade checkpoints, marking the most significant step toward normalizing relations since tensions escalated over territorial disputes last month.
The breakthrough came during a special meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC), where both sides committed to five major initiatives aimed at ending weeks of tension that had disrupted trade and raised security concerns.
Immediate Actions Planned
The most urgent measures involve removing heavy weapons from the border zone and launching a coordinated effort to clear landmines that pose ongoing dangers to civilians. Joint teams will begin identifying clearance sites within weeks, with pilot operations starting within a month.
Both countries also agreed to tackle the growing problem of online fraud operations, with Thailand handing over locations of more than 60 scam centers operating on Cambodian soil. Police chiefs from both sides will meet September 16th in Sa Kaeo to plan joint raids.
Thai Deputy Defence Minister Nattapon Nakpanich and Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Seiha co-chair the 1st Special Session of the General Border Committee (GBC) between Thailand and Cambodia in Koh Kong Province, Cambodia, on Sept. 10, 2025.
Three-Zone Approach
Thai security officials outlined a new border management strategy dividing the frontier into three zones based on threat levels. The most volatile areas spanning four northeastern provinces (Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, Surin, Buriram) will maintain heightened security, while the eastern provinces of Chanthaburi and Trat will see relaxed restrictions allowing limited trade to resume.
The disputed village of Baan Nong Chan in Sa Kaeo province will serve as a test case for resolving territorial disagreements through diplomatic channels rather than military confrontation.
Economic Pressure Mounts
General Natthapol Nakpanit, who led Thailand’s delegation, revealed that third countries had pressed both sides to reopen trade routes, citing economic disruption from the border closure. He specifically mentioned Thai-funded factories in Cambodia employing over 30,000 workers that have been unable to receive equipment and supplies.
“Thailand and Cambodia cannot run away from each other,” General Natthapol said. “We must solve problems peacefully to bring peace back to the border area.”
The next round of talks will be held in Thailand within 30 days to monitor progress on the agreements.
Pattaya officials on jet skis search for the Chinese female tourist who fell from the jet ski, until her body was found later between Koh Nok (Bird Island) and Koh Sichang, September 10, 2025.
PATTAYA — Thai authorities rescued one of two Chinese tourists who went missing while jet skiing off Koh Larn, but the other has died.
The incident began when Mr. Ma, 33, and Miss Yang, 28, rented jet skis from “Mr. Jazz 1” service near Tawaen Beach on Koh Larn in Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province. The couple failed to return at the scheduled time on September 9, prompting immediate search operations.
Nighttime Rescue Operation
Pattaya police received the report at approximately 2:30 p.m. on September 9 from Chamnan Srithong, 45, owner of the jet ski rental service. The Chinese tourists had been staying on Koh Larn before deciding to rent jet skis for an afternoon ride that turned into a maritime emergency.
Pattaya tourist police escort the Chinese male tourist by boat from Koh Larn to the accident site where the jet ski crashed, during the search for his missing girlfriend, September 10, 2025.
Multiple agencies launched an immediate search operation, including Pattaya Police, Koh Larn Police Station, marine rescue teams, tourist police, and marine police. The search continued throughout the night until 2:30 a.m. on September 10, when rescue teams successfully located and rescued Mr. Ma safely. He was taken to Pattaya Tourist Police Station for assistance.
Woman’s Body Found
At 12:00 p.m. on September 10, Pattaya marine rescue teams confirmed they had found Miss Yang’s body in the shipping channel between Koh Nok (Bird Island) and Koh Sichang, approximately one nautical mile (1.8 km) north of Koh Nok. Authorities transported the body to Koh Loy in Sri Racha district for preliminary autopsy examination, confirming the deceased was Miss Yang.
The jet ski ridden by the Chinese tourist couple is towed back to shore at Koh Larn, before the female tourist’s body was found later, September 10, 2025.
Rental Details Revealed
The jet ski rental operator provided additional details about the incident. The Chinese couple had rented a single jet ski for 30 minutes of recreational riding. After departing, they were seen circling near Tawaen Beach for about five minutes before disappearing from view. When the couple failed to return the jet ski at the scheduled time, the operator launched his own search before alerting police and Pattaya marine rescue teams.
The rental operator confirmed this type of incident had never occurred before. Most customers typically ride around Koh Larn before returning the jet ski on time as scheduled.
Investigation Ongoing
Police have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the accident. Mr. Ma has not provided clear details, stating only that they encountered strong winds that caused them to fall from the jet ski and were unable to swim back to shore. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident continues.
FILE - A Myanmar military soldier hoists a national flag during a ceremony to mark the 69th anniversary of Independence Day in Yangon, Myanmar on Jan. 4, 2017. (AP Photo, File)
BANGKOK (AP) — A man has been sentenced to seven years of hard labor in military-run Myanmar for criticizing the government’s plans to hold elections in December, state-run media reported Wednesday.
It’s the first known conviction under the new election law targeting anyone who opposes or disrupts the elections.
In the Aug. 25 Facebook post, which has since been taken down, Nay Thway posted surveillance video of a robbery and criticized the military government for prioritizing the election plan over ensuring public safety.
Nay Thway, 36, was sentenced in a Taunggyi township court in eastern Shan state to the maximum for the offense of attempting to undermine the elections, according to the Myanma Alinn newspaper. Other offenses under the new law carry sentences up to the death penalty.
It was not immediately clear if he would appeal, and no information was given about who might have represented him in court.
The military seized power from the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021, which triggered widespread popular opposition that has grown into a civil war.
Myanmar opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi speaks in 2015 during an election campaign rally of her National League for Democracy party for upcoming general election in Yangon, Myanmar. Photo: Khin Maung Win / Associated Press
Critics have denounced the election plan as a sham to normalize the military takeover, and several opposition organizations, including armed resistance groups, have said they will try to derail them.
About 60 parties, including the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party, have registered to run in the elections that would start Dec. 28, according to the Union Election Commission. The commission said Tuesday it had revoked registration and dissolved four political parties for failing to meet the required number of party members and party office.
Suu Kyi, 80, is serving prison sentences totaling 27 years after being convicted in a series of politically tainted prosecutions brought by the military.
The main opposition National Unity Government, established by elected lawmakers who were barred from taking the seats they won before the 2021 takeover, has said Suu Kyi is in ailing health but the military has denied that, saying she is in good condition.
Thai Airways Royal Silk Class domestic seating. (Photo: Teerat Ratanasevi)
BANGKOK — Thai Airways will eliminate First Class within two to three years as part of a major strategy to improve its premium travel experience and regain market share. The airline will discontinue First Class on all routes and instead upgrade its Business Class offering to a more luxurious level.
CEO Chai Eamsiri told Prachachat that the airline plans to improve the flying experience in all cabin classes by investing in aircraft modernization to increase efficiency and global competitiveness. The strategy focuses on strengthening Thai Airways’ position at Suvarnabhumi Airport, its home base, with the goal of steadily increasing market share.
Scrapping First Class Follows Global Trend
Now that Thai Airways has regained financial strength, exited its reorganization plan and successfully returned to the Thai Stock Exchange, improving in-flight service standards has become a key priority. This includes upgrading seats, meals and in-flight entertainment to provide a better traveling experience for passengers worldwide.
Thai Airways CEO Chai Eamsiri
As part of the restructuring plan, the airline will standardize its cabin configuration into three classes: Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy. First Class—the most exclusive service featuring spacious lie-flat seats, fine dining and premium amenities—will be discontinued in line with global aviation trends.
“Major international airlines have already abolished First Class and left Business Class as the top tier,” said Chai, citing American Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Oman Air, Air New Zealand and Malaysia Airlines as examples. Thai Airways has already gradually reduced First Class service and now only offers it on two to three routes, including Bangkok-London and Bangkok-Narita.
For travelers seeking more comfort than standard Business Class, Thai Airways will introduce upgraded premium seats in the front rows of each Business cabin, offering additional choice without the premium First Class pricing.
Supporting this strategy, Thai Airways has begun converting its 20 Airbus A320 narrow-body aircraft from economy-only to a two-class configuration. The cabins now feature Royal Silk Class with 12 seats that adjust up to eight centimeters for greater comfort, plus 144 Economy Class seats. Wireless in-flight entertainment systems have also been installed, with the complete refit scheduled for completion by 2025.
In-Flight Entertainment aboard Boeing 777-300ER on Bangkok-Frankfurt flight (Photo: Teerat Ratanasevi)
The airline will take delivery of two new Airbus A321neo aircraft this year, followed by 15 more in 2026. These 17 A321neo aircraft will anchor the fleet modernization strategy, designed specifically for premium passengers with lie-flat Business Class seats offering enhanced privacy and better aisle access.
“We see aircraft themselves as mass products. The real competition lies in in-flight service—seats, entertainment, food and crew service,” said CEO Chai. “The arrival of the A321neo and refurbished A320 represents a crucial step in strengthening Thai Airways’ competitiveness on regional routes.”
Comprehensive Long-Haul Upgrades Planned
Building on the regional fleet improvements, Thai Airways will refurbish 14 Boeing 777-300ERs over the next two years, installing new business class suites with private doors, plus redesigned premium economy and economy seats. The fleet of 20 Airbus A350s will receive cabin upgrades starting in 2028 to deliver a premium long-haul travel experience.
Additionally, the airline plans to take delivery of 45 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with the first nine arriving in 2028. None of these new aircraft will feature First Class cabins, instead following the standardized three-class configuration.
“This seat upgrade plan ensures all Thai Airways aircraft offer consistent, standardized products across the fleet,” Chai explained.
Thai Airways Royal Silk Class domestic seating. (Photo: Teerat Ratanasevi)
Ambitious Growth Targets Set
Thai Airways plans to expand its fleet from the current 78 aircraft (58 wide-body, 20 narrow-body) to 150 aircraft by 2033, comprising 98 wide-body and 52 narrow-body aircraft. The planned fleet mix includes 15 Boeing 777-300ERs, 17 Airbus A350s, 66 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 52 Airbus A320/A321neos.
To support long-haul operations in 2027-2028, the airline is also considering leasing 8-10 additional wide-body aircraft for six years, subject to board approval.
The company targets capturing 35% market share at Suvarnabhumi Airport by 2029, eventually aiming to return to approximately 42%—similar to its 2013 peak when it operated 100 aircraft.
Thai Airways aircraft parkห at Suvarnabhumi Airport. (Photo: Teerat Ratanasevi)
Business Class Quality Matches First Class Standards
Chief Commercial Officer Kittipong Sarasombat noted that Thai Airways has already reduced First Class capacity after retiring its Airbus A380s and Boeing 747-400s during the COVID-19 crisis. Today, First Class operates only on three Boeing 777s serving routes like Bangkok-London and Bangkok-Narita. This service will be phased out as part of the fleet standardization plan.
The next generation Business Class will deliver comfort equal to or exceeding current First Class standards, thanks to advances in design and seat manufacturing technology. Premium seats in Business Class front rows will offer an upscale experience without the extremely high First Class pricing.
This strategic shift allows Thai Airways to improve profitability, as modern Business Class products have reduced demand for traditional First Class service, positioning the airline for stronger competition in the evolving premium travel market.
As urban professionals increasingly turn to serviced apartments for a better balance of work, family, and lifestyle, ONYX Hospitality Group is spotlighting its Shama brand — a growing collection of residences in Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and China. Designed to meet the needs of today’s new generation of city dwellers, Shama offers the flexibility, convenience, and community that redefine the modern urban home.
Shama: A New Way of Living
Shama is designed for executives, professionals, and families who require both short- and long-term accommodation. It offers spacious residences with functional layouts – complete with kitchens and living areas – alongside amenities for everyday life. All of this is complemented by hotel-standard services to ensure comfort and ease.
More than just providing a place to live, Shama reimagines the home experience by blending the warmth of home with the conveniences of a hotel. This approach resonates with modern city dwellers who value quality of life and flexibility over traditional property ownership. It is why Shama stands as a pioneer of the New Urban Living Mindset, making the idea of a “second home” a reality for today’s urbanites.
Shama is more than just a place to stay; it is a new way of living. Offering flexibility, convenience, and a better quality of life, Shama is redefining the modern home for city dwellers across Asia.
Scene of fatal lion attack at Bangkok safari park on September 10, 2025.
BANGKOK — A zoo employee was killed by lions at a Bangkok safari park on Wednesday after violating company safety protocols, police revealed following their investigation into the tragic incident.
The victim, Jian, was a 58-year-old animal caretaker for lions and tigers who had worked at the zoo for 30 years. The attack occurred around 11:00 a.m. on September 10 when the experienced staff member exited his vehicle to retrieve an item he had dropped at the safari park located in Bangkok’s Khannayao district, according to Police Colonel Niruchpon Yothamat of Khannayao Police Station.
While bending down to pick up the object with his back turned to the lions, one of the animals approached from about 10 meters away and pounced on him from behind. The lion dragged the employee to the ground and began mauling him before three to four other lions joined the attack.
Police inspect the scene where lions fatally attacked a 58-year-old employee at Bangkok safari park on September 10ม 2025.
The assault continued for approximately 15 minutes while horrified tourists – both Thai and foreign visitors – watched helplessly from their vehicles, honking horns and shouting in attempts to scare the lions away.
Witness Account
Colonel Dr. Thawatchai Kanchanarin, a former surgeon at Phramongkutklao Hospital who witnessed the incident, said many people initially thought the lions were simply being playful with a familiar staff member. “People thought the lions might just be trying to embrace him, so no one approached the area,” he explained.
Dr. Thawatchai said he was surprised from the moment he saw the employee get out of the vehicle and stand motionless for about 2-3 minutes before the lions dragged him down while his back was turned. The victim never screamed or called for help.
Police inspect the scene where lions fatally attacked a 58-year-old employee at Bangkok safari park on September 10ม 2025.
Expert Analysis
A veterinarian from the Department of National Parks offered the opinion that, based on video footage, the lions’ behavior might have been playful due to their familiarity with the keeper. However, because of their size, this resulted in fatal injuries. The lions were not fully mature – in their pre-adolescent stage – so they were experimenting with hunting prey through playful mauling.
Medical Examination
Medical staff at Intararat Hospital confirmed that all of the victim’s organs remained intact, with only bite marks and claw scratches causing severe wounds, particularly around the neck, abdomen, and right leg. The Police Hospital’s Forensic Institute will conduct an autopsy before releasing the body to the family for religious ceremonies.
Official Response
Atthapol Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, said he immediately ordered officials from the Wildlife Conservation Office and CITES Office to inspect the Safari World area. The incident occurred in the drive-through safari tourism zone.
Screenshot from safari lion video that Jian posted on Facebook in 2023.
Initial findings show the safari legally operates with proper permits and houses 32 lions, all legally owned and mostly imported from Africa. However, it remains unclear why the lions attacked their keeper, as monthly safety inspections had never revealed any history of animals harming staff. Additional safety measures will be reviewed to prevent future emergencies.
Safari Management Statement
Yutthana Phitaktha, Safari Zone Park Manager of Safari World, said the zoo has temporarily closed the area for safety and secured all lions in cages. He emphasized that the zoo maintains safety measures exceeding 300% requirements and that in 40 years of operation, no such incident has ever occurred before.
Jian’s primary responsibility was driving to keep animals within designated road boundaries to prevent tourist vehicle collisions. He had never been complained about or violated any rules, and was known for his calm temperament. However, it’s unknown whether he had any mental health issues or depression. The zoo expressed condolences to the victim’s family and has measures to provide family support according to company regulations.
Police inspect the scene where lions fatally attacked a 58-year-old employee at Bangkok safari park on September 10ม 2025.
Family’s Grief
Ratanapa, the victim’s wife, said she was shocked and couldn’t accept what happened. Her husband had worked at Safari World since he was young and was approaching retirement. “He loved this job, loved animals, and was very calm and careful. Just two days ago, we talked about life after retirement – buying a small plot of land to become farmers. He was very strong, not stressed, had no family problems, and wasn’t suffering from depression.”
Colonel Dr. Thawatchai Kanchanarin, a former surgeon at Phramongkutklao Hospital who witnessed the incident, said many people initially thought the lions were simply being playful with a familiar staff member. “People thought the lions might just be trying to embrace him, so no one approached the area,” he explained.
Nepalese army personnel patrol the streets in Kathmandu, Nepal, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)
KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — Armed soldiers guarded the streets of Nepal’s capital Wednesday, ordering people to stay home in an attempt to restore order after tens of thousands of protesters stormed and set fire to government buildings and attacked politicians.
Soldiers with weapons guarding the main areas of Kathmandu appeared to give some sense of control returning to the city that was overtaken by violence and chaos in previous days.
The army warned in an announcement late Tuesday that the security forces were committed to preserving law and order. The army is rarely mobilized and so far had stayed in its barracks, but police have failed to control the situation.
Nepalese army personnel check and question civilians at a checkpoint in Kathmandu, Nepal, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)
Soldiers told people in Kathmandu that the curfew was valid and checked vehicles and people. The army in a statement said 21 suspected looters had been arrested.
The protests had grown increasingly violent Tuesday as demonstrators set fire to government buildings and politicians’ homes and attacked some leaders. The prime minister resigned amid widening criticism of the country’s political elite, though it appeared to have little effect on the unrest.
Tens of thousands of protesters remained on the streets late in the day, blocking roads and storming government facilities. Army helicopters ferried some ministers to safe places.
Anger over social media ban was just the beginning
On Monday, demonstrations led by young people angry about the blocking of several social media sites gripped the capital, and police opened fire on the crowds, killing 19 people.
The social media ban was lifted Tuesday, but the protests continued, fueled by rage over the deaths and accusations of political corruption.
Nepalese army soldiers disperse protesters from Singha Durbar, the seat of Nepal’s government’s various ministries and offices, after it was set on fire during a protest against a social media ban and corruption in Kathmandu, Nepal, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)
President Ram Chandra Poudel, the ceremonial head of state, appealed to the protesters to pursue a peaceful resolution and stop further escalation. He accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli and appointed Oli to lead a caretaker government until a new one is in place — though it was unclear what power he would wield or even where he was.
The demonstrations — called the protest of Gen Z — began after the government blocked social media platforms, including Facebook, X and YouTube, saying the companies had failed to register and submit to government oversight.
But the protests spiraled to reflect broader discontent. In particular, many young people are angry that the children of political leaders — so-called nepo kids — seem to enjoy luxury lifestyles and numerous advantages while most youth struggle to find work. With youth unemployment running at about 20% last year, according to the World Bank, the government estimates that more than 2,000 young people leave the country every day to seek work in the Middle East or Southeast Asia.
Political leaders, buildings and homes were targeted
Videos shared on social media showed protesters beating up Nepali Congress party leader Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife, Arzu Rana Deuba, the current foreign minister. Both appeared to be bleeding, while one video showed the party leader being helped to safety. The party is the country’s largest and is part of the governing coalition.
An ambulance drives past protesters burning tires to block streets during protests against social media ban and corruption in Kathmandu, Nepal, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)
Smoke was still coming out of the parliament building, presidential house, the central secretariat that has the offices of the prime minister and key ministries, and the prime minister’s official residence Wednesday.
The building of Kantipur publication, the biggest media outlet in Nepal, was torched and damaged. Car showrooms were also torched. Burned-out vehicles dotted the streets.
Protesters had attacked government buildings and the residences of the top political leaders throughout Tuesday, blaming the government for the police opening fire on the protesters.
In addition to the 19 fatalities, scores of people were wounded. Oli has ordered an investigation report on the shootings and promised compensation to the families.
The government is seeking to regulate social media
The violence unfolded as Nepal’s government pursues a broader attempt to regulate social media with a bill aimed at ensuring the platforms are “properly managed, responsible and accountable.” The proposal has been widely criticized as a tool for censorship and for punishing government opponents who voice their protests online.
The bill would require companies to appoint a liaison office or a point of contact in the country. Rights groups have called it an attempt by the government to curb freedom of expression and fundamental rights.
The registration requirement applied to about two dozen social networks widely used in Nepal. Those that didn’t comply were blocked last week, though TikTok, Viber and three other platforms that registered were operating without interruption.
Thanks to a regional project, seven Southeast Asian schools have made positive and potentially sustainable impacts on their students via school breakfast or lunch initiatives.
“Their students have developed hygienic habits, like washing their hands before meals, and become more cautious about food choices,” said Ms. Duriya Amatavivat, Director of SEAMEO Regional Centre for Sufficiency Economy Philosophy for Sustainability (SEAMEO SEPS).
The Centre, in collaboration with the Southeast Asia One Health University Network (SEAOHUN) and Chevron, has implemented the Promotion of Well-being in Schools in Southeast Asia Project at the regional level since June 2024. During the first phase, participating schools engaged in capacity building and developed proposals to upgrade their school lunch/feeding programs. These proposals were then implemented with financial grants from last December to June this year at seven selected schools with results.
Winners of the project’s grant awards, which hail from Thailand namely Ban Pangmahan School and Aroyama Border Patrol Police school, Smet Primary School from Cambodia, Sekolah Bimbingan Jalinan Kasih (SBJK) from Malaysia, Patiis Elementary School from Philippines, Sekolah Rendah Pehin Dato Jamil&Sekolah Rendah Pengiran Anak Puteri Besar from Brunei Darussalam andSD Negeri 2 Landasan Ulin Barat from Indonesia, shared their success stories at the Seminar on the Integration of One Health and Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) for Sustainable School Well-being earlier this month.
Duriya now expects all the seven winners of the Promotion of Well-being in Schools in Southeast Asia Project’s grants to share their know-how with between eight and ten nearby schools each.
Smoke rises from an explosion, allegedly caused by an Israeli strike, in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (UGC via AP)
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Israel launched a strike targeting Hamas’ leadership in Qatar on Tuesday as they considered a U.S. proposal for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The strike on the territory of a U.S. ally marked a stunning escalation and risked upending talks aimed at winding down the war and freeing hostages.
Qatar, an energy-rich U.S. ally hosting thousands of American troops, has served as a key mediator between Israel and Hamas for several years, even before the war. It condemned what it referred to as a “flagrant violation of all international laws and norms” as smoke rose over its capital, Doha.
It was not immediately clear if anyone was hurt in the strike. Hamas has survived numerous assassinations of top leaders and is still intact in Gaza, despite having suffered major blows since the outbreak of the war triggered by its Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack, saying “all parties must work towards achieving a permanent ceasefire, not destroying it.”
Smoke rises from an explosion, allegedly caused by an Israeli strike, in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (UGC via AP)
Israel had long threatened Hamas in Qatar
Israel has long threatened to strike Hamas leaders wherever they are. While it has often welcomed Qatar’s role as a mediator, alongside Egypt, it has also accused the Gulf nation of not putting enough pressure on the group.
In contrast to previous Israeli operations against senior militants abroad, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was quick to publicly claim the strike, saying: “Israel initiated it, Israel conducted it and Israel takes full responsibility.”
He said the decision was taken Monday after a shooting attack in Jerusalem that killed six people and an attack on Israeli forces in Gaza that killed four soldiers.
The military said it used “precise munitions and additional intelligence” in the strike, without elaborating. An Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss details beyond the statement, confirmed the strike targeted Hamas.
The Israeli official and another person familiar with the matter who was not authorized to comment publicly said Israel alerted the U.S. ahead of time. Pentagon officials referred questions to the White House, where officials did not immediately respond.
Qatar condemned what it referred to as a “cowardly Israeli attack” on Hamas’ political headquarters in Doha. Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari called it a “flagrant violation of all international laws and norms” and said Qatar “will not tolerate this reckless Israeli behavior.”
The U.S. Embassy in Qatar said that it had instituted a shelter-in-place order for its facilities.
Ceasefire negotiations in question
Earlier this week, U.S. President Donald Trump said he was giving his “last warning” to Hamas regarding a possible ceasefire, as the U.S. advanced a new proposal that Arab officials said included the immediate release of all the hostages.
A senior Hamas official called it a “humiliating surrender document,” but the militant group said it would discuss the proposal and respond within days.
An Egyptian official said the strike came when a meeting by Hamas officials over the talks had been scheduled for the site. The official spoke on condition of anonymity, because he wasn’t authorized to talk to reporters.
The proposal, presented by Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, calls for a negotiated end of the war and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza once the hostages are released and a ceasefire is established. That’s according to Egyptian and Hamas officials familiar with the talks, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the closed-door discussions.
Displaced Palestinians fleeing northern Gaza carry their belongings along the coastal road toward southern Gaza, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025, after the Israeli army issued evacuation orders from Gaza City. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)
Hamas has said it will only release the remaining 48 hostages, around 20 of them believed to be alive, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a lasting ceasefire and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Netanyahu has rejected those terms, saying the war will continue until all the hostages are returned and Hamas has been disarmed, with Israel maintaining open-ended security control over Gaza.
Mediators had previously focused on brokering a temporary ceasefire and the release of some hostages, with the two sides then holding talks on a more permanent truce. Witkoff walked away from those talks in July, after which Hamas accepted a proposal that the mediators said was almost identical to an earlier one that Israel had approved.
Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the United Arab Emirates’ foreign minister, expressed “full solidarity with our dear Qatar” shortly after the attack.
The United Arab Emirates recently warned Israel that any move to annex the occupied West Bank would threatened the Abraham Accords, a landmark agreement brokered by Trump during his first term in which the two nations normalized relations.
Trump hopes to expand those accords to include regional heavyweight Saudi Arabia, but those prospects have dimmed as the war has ground on.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman described the strike as a “criminal act and a flagrant violation of international law” in a phone call with Qatar’s ruler.
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Federman reported from Jerusalem. Associated Press writers Samy Magdy in Cairo, and Aamer Madhani in Washington, contributed.
A protester throws a photograph of Nepal Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli in the fire at the Singha Durbar, the seat of Nepal's government's various ministries and offices during a protest against social media ban and corruption in Kathmandu, Nepal, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)
KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — Nepal’s prime minister resigned Tuesday as protests against a short-lived ban on social media grew increasingly violent and expanded into broader criticism of his government and accusations of corruption among the Himalayan country’s political elite.
The resignation appeared to have little effect on the demonstrations. Tens of thousands of protesters remained on the streets late in the day, blocking roads, storming government buildings and setting them on fire, and, in some cases, attacking political leaders. Army helicopters ferried some ministers to safe places.
A day earlier, demonstrations led by young people angry about the blocking of several social media sites gripped the country’s capital, and police opened fired on the crowds, killing 19 people.
Protesters shout slogans during a protest against a social media ban and corruption in Kathmandu, Nepal, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)
The ban was lifted Tuesday, but the protests continued, fueled by anger over the deaths and growing frustration with the political elite in the nation wedged between China and India.
As the protests intensified, Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli announced he was stepping down. The president accepted the resignation and appointed Oli to lead a caretaker government until a new one is in place — though it was unclear what power he would wield or even where he was.
President Ram Chandra Poudel, the ceremonial head of state, made a public appeal to the protesters to come forward for dialogue to find a peaceful resolution and stop further escalating of the situation.
The army issued a statement calling for calm and urging political dialogue, but did not give any other details.
Protesters celebrate at the Singha Durbar, the seat of Nepal’s government’s various ministries and offices after burning it down during a protest against social media ban and corruption in Kathmandu, Nepal, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)
Focus turns to the government
The demonstrations — called the protest of Gen Z — began after the government blocked platforms, including Facebook, X and YouTube, saying the companies had failed to register and submit to government oversight.
But they spiraled to reflect broader discontent. In particular, many young people are angry that the children of political leaders — so-called Nepo Kids — seem to enjoy luxury lifestyles and numerous advantages while most youth struggle to find work. With youth unemployment running at about 20% last year, according to the World Bank, the government estimates that more than 2,000 young people leave the country every day to seek work in the Middle East or southeast Asia.
“I am here to protest about the massive corruption in our country,” said Bishnu Thapa Chetri, a student. “The country has gotten so bad that for us youths there is no grounds for us to stay.”
Videos shared on social media showed protesters beating up Nepali Congress party leader Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife, Arzu Rana Deuba, the current foreign minister. Both appeared to be bleeding, while one video showed the party leader being helped to safety. The party is the country’s largest and is part of the governing coalition.
Nepalese army soldiers disperse protesters from Singha Durbar, the seat of Nepal’s government’s various ministries and offices, after it was set on fire during a protest against a social media ban and corruption in Kathmandu, Nepal, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)
‘See that justice is done’
Local media and videos on social media also showed protesters attacking government buildings and the residences of the top political leaders throughout Tuesday.
The presidential palace, the prime minister’s official residence, and a building that houses the offices of the prime minster and several ministries were all torched. Thick smoke rose from the prime minister’s office building.
Earlier, Oli’s private home was set on fire, as were those of the president, home minister and the Deubas. The home of the leader of the opposition Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) was also set ablaze.
Some protesters blamed the government for the police opening fire and called for the ouster of the increasingly unpopular prime minister.
“We are here to protest because our youths and friends are getting killed, we are here to see that justice is done and the present regime is ousted,” said Narayan Acharya, who was among the protesters outside the battered wall of the parliament building Tuesday. “K.P. Oli should be chased away.”
Protesters celebrate at the Singha Durbar, the seat of Nepal’s government’s various ministries and offices, after burning it down during a protest against a social media ban and corruption in Kathmandu, Nepal, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)
Police fire on crowds
Monday’s rallies swelled to tens of thousands of people in Kathmandu and crowds surrounded the Parliament building before police opened fire on the demonstrators.
“Stop the ban on social media. Stop corruption, not social media,” the crowds chanted, waving national flags.
Seven of the 19 killed and scores of the wounded were taken to the National Trauma Center, the country’s main hospital.
“Many of them are in serious condition and appear to have been shot in the head and chest,” said Dr. Badri Risa, who works at the hospital. Families waited for news of their relatives while people lined up to donate blood.
Before he resigned, Oli said he would form an investigating committee that would submit a report on the shooting in 15 days. He added that compensation would be given to the families of those who were killed and those who were wounded would receive free treatment.
Riot police use water cannon on protesters during clashes outside parliament building in Kathmandu, Nepal, Monday, Sept. 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)
Social media ban
The violence unfolded as Nepal’s government pursues a broader attempt to regulate social media with a bill aimed at ensuring the platforms are “properly managed, responsible and accountable.” The proposal has been widely criticized as a tool for censorship and for punishing government opponents who voice their protests online.
The bill would require companies to appoint a liaison office or a point of contact in the country. Rights groups have called it an attempt by the government to curb freedom of expression and fundamental rights.
The registration requirement applied to about two dozen social networks widely used in Nepal.
Neither Google, which owns YouTube, nor Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, responded to requests for comment from The Associated Press. Elon Musk’s X platform also did not respond.
TikTok, Viber and three other platforms have registered and operated without interruption.
Nepal in 2023 banned TikTok for disrupting “social harmony, goodwill and diffusing indecent materials.” The ban was lifted last year after TikTok’s executives pledged to comply with local laws, including a ban of pornographic sites that was passed in 2018.
