Pope Francis embarks on an ambitious four-nation tour of Asia, marking his longest and most complex international journey. The itinerary includes a historic interfaith gathering in Indonesia’s Istiqlal Mosque, symbolizing a bridge between religious communities.

In a bold resurgence, Myanmar’s Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) has shattered a fragile ceasefire, reigniting fierce combat in the northeastern Shan State. Allied with local forces and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, they are encircling the strategic city of Lashio, posing a significant challenge to the military regime.