EZ News

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened up 35-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,546 on turnover of 4-billion N-T. The market closed lower yesterday, led by the electronics sector amid concerns over AI development after the heads of three U-S AI giants warned of risks and called for a slowdown in development. FM announces plans to open representative's office in Cebu Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung says the Lai administration is preparing to open a representative office (代表處) in Cebu Province in the Philippines. According to Lin, the office will be Taiwan's second in the country after Manila and will serve travelers and businesspeople in the central Philippines, which is a popular tourism destination (旅遊目的地). The statement comes after Nikkei Asia reported on the new office earlier this week. Lin has not said when the Cebu office will open. CDC warns that flu cases are expected to peak around Mid-Autumn Festival The Centers for Disease Control says the number of flu cases continued to rise last week. According to the C-D-C, a total of 136,796 outpatient (門診病患；門診的) and emergency visits for flu-like symptoms were recorded from September 6 through 12 and that's a 16.5-per cent increase from the previous week. The C-D-C's Epidemic Intelligence Center says the current flu epidemic is now expected to peak (達到高峰) around the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, when outpatient and emergency visits will likely reach between 150,000 and 160,000. Influenza A viruses remain dominant in the community, with the A-H-1-N-1 subtype accounting for 82.2-per cent of all detected cases. The first phase of the government's free flu vaccination program begins on October 1. Nikkei: China applies sweeping new entry and exit rules tied to national security New entry and exit rules have taken effect in China, as Beijing links entry rules to national security in legal terms. Nikkei Asia reports that under the new rules, Chinese citizens can be banned from leaving the country for a minimum of 6 months to an indefinite (無限期的；期限不定的) period. Foreign nationals can also be barred from entering the country if they submit inaccurate information or make false statements in visa applications. The provisions (條款；規定) are particularly concerning to company founders and executives following a series of high-profile cases of individuals unable to leave. Beijing previously banned a foreign bank employee and US government worker from leaving China and also reportedly imposed exit restrictions on two founders of an AI startup. Legal experts say the change highlights China's increasing use of explicit legal language to bar people from leaving, as opposed to holding people who don't know what they're being held for. Nvidia's Huang and Anthropic's Amodei clash over AI safety as Trump calls fears a 'hoax' Salesforce has unveiled (發布；揭曉) a new artificial intelligence model called Koa at the opening of its annual Dreamforce conference in San Francisco, where the debate over the safety of rapidly advancing AI technology is dominating (主導；佔據主要地位) discussion among more than 43,000 attendees. Anthropic and OpenAI have both called for the industry to slow down, while Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang and US President Donald Trump have pushed back against those concerns. Some critics, however, say the safety argument may serve a commercial purpose. Ira Spitzer reports from San Francisco. … That was Ira Spitzer reporting.  That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

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Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 174-points this morning from Friday's close, at 46,010 on turnover of 8.2-billion N-T. The market moved sharply lower on Friday, led by the electronics sector, amid growing fears over an interest rate hike by the U-S Federal Reserve and a surge in international crude oil prices. Earthquakes rattle east coast area No damage or injuries are being reported following this morning's earthquakes that rattled Hualien. The first of the quakes had a magnitude 4.7 and struck at 3:21 and was centered some 54-kilometers south southwest of Hualien County Hall at a depth of 17-kilometers. It was felt stongest in Hualien's Wanrong Township and Nantou's Yushan area - where it registered a magnitude 4 on the Central Weather Administration's intensity scale. The quake registered a 3 on the intensity scale in other parts of Hualien. The second quake struck at 6:44 and was centered some 43-kilometers east southeast of Taitung County Hall at a depth of 10-kilometers. It was stongest in Taitung's Donghe Township and on Green Island - where it registered a magnitude 4 on the Central Weather Administration's intensity scale. That quake also registered a magnitude 3 on the scale in other parts of Taitung, as well as in parts of Hualien. Dwight Howard headlines New Taipei Kings charity event Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Dwight Howard returned to Taiwan this past weekend to attend a charity event organized by the New Taipei Kings and The Asian Tournament. Speaking with reporters at the opening of the event at Xinzhuang Gymnasium in New Taipei, Howard said he was "always glad" to return to Taiwan and he missed Taiwan's food. The Kings' says part of the proceeds from the event are being donated to PACK Taiwan, an animal welfare (動物福利) organization. Howard became one of Taiwan's most prominent foreign athletes after joining the Taoyuan Leopards in the now-defunct T1 League for the 2022-2023 season, following an 18-season N-B-A career. NKorea LiveFire Drills include Ballistic Missiles North Korea says it has conducted a joint live-fire drill involving missiles, artillery and drones that it claimed demonstrated “the huge destructive power of concentrated fire.” The official Korean Central News Agency said Monday that Saturday’s drill was meant to get familiar with the procedure for the operation of the integrated firepower control system. South Korea’s military earlier said it detected short-range ballistic missile launches from North Korea’s eastern coastal Wonsan area on Saturday morning. The Joint Chiefs of Staff said several missiles each flew about 250 kilometers toward North Korea’s eastern waters. Experts say the flight distances signal the weapons are designed to (用來) strike targets in South Korea. MICROSOFT'S NADELLA BACKS DELIBERATE AI SLOWDOWN WITH CAVEATS AS WASHINGTON DEBATES RESPONSE Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella has backed calls for a more deliberate pace of artificial intelligence development, though he says companies must retain full control over their proprietary knowledge and that any safety regime must protect enterprise privacy. Nadella's statement on Sunday afternoon came a day after the heads of Anthropic, OpenAI and Elon Musk's xAI jointly called for the industry to slow down the building of more powerful models — a call US President Donald Trump dismissed from Ireland as exaggerated (誇張的). White House AI adviser David Sacks has told the companies to stop waiting for government permission and to regulate themselves. Kate Fisher reports from Washington. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 你的職涯卡關了嗎? 高屏澎東分署青年職涯發展中心YS陪你跨出關鍵下一步！ 專為 15-29 歲青年提供「完全免費」的職涯服務： 職涯探索：職涯諮詢、適性測驗 認識職場：職人講座、職場參訪 職場續航：實戰技能、企業主管與心理師指引 點我報名活動：https://sofm.pse.is/9lplv9 以上廣告由勞動部勞動力發展署高屏澎東分署提供 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened opened down 289-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,651 on turnover of 10.9-billion N-T. Two-story building damaged by adjacent construction work in Taipei A two-story building in Taipei has been severely damaged after an adjacent (鄰近的) construction work caused its ground floor to crack and leak yellowish muddy water. No injuries were reported. The building are located in an alley off Minquan East Road, near Xingtian Temple M-R-T Station. Officials say an initial investigation suggests that a breach in the underground diaphragm wall during foundation excavation and retaining operations caused water and sand leakage. The Taipei City Government says construction work at the site has been suspended due to failure to maintain the safety of adjacent public facilities and buildings, and work will not resume until an improvement plan has been submitted and approved. The contractor and the supervisor have each been fined 90-thousand N-T. Citrus taiwanica becomes Taiwan's first patent-protected Indigenous crop Citrus taiwanica has received patent protection covering products derived from the plant and been licensed to a Saisiyat cooperative in Miaoli County. Citrus taiwanica is a citrus species traditionally used by the Indigenous Saisiyat people. According to the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency, the patent covers applications of the plant and products derived from (源自) it, with authorization from the Saisiyat tribe required for their use. The case marks the first time a traditional Indigenous crop and products derived from it have received patent protection. The agency says the traditional knowledge underlying the use of the citrus came from the Saisiyat tribe and that technologies and products developed through modern research based on that knowledge should benefit its original holders. Authorities are insisting that license is not intended to monopolize the plant, but aimed at protecting and preserving the traditional knowledge of the Saisiyat people. Yemen Houthis Take Control of Mokha The Iran-backed Houthi rebel group has taken control of Yemen's strategic Red Sea port city of Mokha. Houthi and Yemeni officials confirmed the takeover. This move could bring them closer to controlling a critical waterway to the Red Sea. Meanwhile, Yemeni government forces launched airstrikes targeting Houthi reinforcements west of Taiz. Clashes also continued along Yemen’s western coast. Mokha had been held by forces aligned with Yemen’s internationally recognized government. The Houthis have been fighting a civil war with the government since 2014. The fighting now threatens a fragile (脆弱的) truce that took effect in 2022. TRUMP'S $5,000 DIVIDEND PLEDGE FACES LEGAL DOUBTS AND BOND MARKET JITTERS AS CRITICS CALL IT A BRIBE US President Donald Trump's pledge to give every American adult five thousand dollars if Republicans hold Congress in the midterm elections could cost more than one-point-two trillion dollars, with no clear plan to pay for it. Legal experts have questioned whether the president even has the authority to authorise (授權) such a payment, since the US Constitution requires Congress to approve government spending. Nick Harper, our reporter in Washington, says the president has a track record of floating (提出想法、試探性地提出) similar dividend proposals that have never been delivered. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ Kurt Wu X 中信 X 米米立 X Bonny&Read 天天登入抽聯名活動 📍活動路徑：中信銀行APP>右下角更多>數位點任務牆>【天天登入抽】前往活動頁 👉立即抽獎> https://sofm.pse.is/9lmvmw -- 【高雄出發 日本滑雪團限時優惠】 9/30前報名付訂，每人折$5,000 11/30前報名付訂，每人折$3,000 凡參加過滑雪團系列商品，老朋友獨享優惠每人再折$1,000 自備雪具者另享減價優惠 https://sofm.pse.is/9lgn85 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened down 52-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,130 on turnover of 8-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher on Wednesday despite giving up early gains, as investors await the release of the latest data on U-S consumer prices (消費者物價) and inflation. Investor momentum (動能) stalled as profit-taking set in when the Tai-Ex moved closer to the all-time intraday high of 48,218 points. AIT chief on economic impact of Taiwan Strait conflict  American Institute in Taiwan Director Raymond Greene says a conflict across the Taiwan Strait could inflict (造成傷害／損失) an economic cost greater than that of World War II. Greene made the remarks in a keynote address at the 2026 Taipei Security Dialogue. The event was organized by the government funded Institute for National Defense and Security Research think tank (智庫). According to Greene, Taiwan doesn't need to demonstrate that it can win a war outright in order to deter a conflict, but it must convince a potential adversary that landing a large ground force would be extremely difficult. CDC reports 30 mpox cases in 2026 and imported infections double The Centers for Disease Control says 30 confirmed mpox cases have been reported so far this year. According to the C-D-C, imported cases have more than doubled from last year and most cases are linked to unprotected sexual contact (無防護性接觸). The statement comes as the C-D-C announced two new mpox infections - one of which was locally acquired and the other imported. Health authorities say both cases involved unvaccinated men who had engaged in unprotected sexual activity. Data shows that as of September 7, the C-D-C had confirmed 20 domestic and 10 imported mpox cases so far this year. All of the patients were men aged between 20 and 50. IAEA refers Iran to UN security council for first time in 20 years as war enters 8th month The International Atomic Energy Agency's Board of Governors has voted to refer Iran to the United Nations Security Council for breaching its nuclear non-proliferation (核不擴散) obligations — the first such referral in twenty years. The vote came as US President Donald Trump said the war with Iran would end immediately after November's midterm elections, saying Tehran cannot sustain (維持) the conflict much longer — though the White House says it is not seeking to resume negotiations. The president's comments come amid rising energy costs, with oil climbing above a hundred dollars a barrel during the seven-month conflict. Jagruti Dave, our reporter in Washington, says the IAEA resolution adds diplomatic pressure on Tehran but is widely seen as unlikely to produce new sanctions because of the vetoes held by Russia and China on the Security Council. Kenya Nurses Strike Ends wtih Return-to-Work Agreement A 43-day nurses’ strike in Kenya that paralyzed (使癱瘓／使陷入停擺) public hospitals has ended after the government and the nurses’ union signed a return-to-work agreement. The nurses marched Tuesday to the Council of Governors’ office, a body established to bring together Kenya’s 47 county governments. On Wednesday, union representatives signed the agreement at the same office.  The union said nurses would return to hospitals within 24 hours.  They say the return-to-work agreement provided 45 days for negotiations to conclude on the implementation (實施／執行) of the 2017 agreement. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened up 36-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,142 on turnover of 8.5-billion N-T. The market ended lower on Tuesday, largely due to a lack of guidance from Wall Street, as U-S indices were closed on Monday for a holiday. The index initially posted solid gains, but soon turned lower, as investors opted to stay on the sidelines (保持觀望). However, market heavyweight Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing remained resilient (表現穩健的；有韌性的) and closed the day in positive territory, to stop the broader market from falling further. Man arrested for alleged hit-and-run killing of nurse Police in Taichung have arrested a man wanted in connection with a hit-and-run (肇事逃逸) incident that resulted in the death of a nurse. The case has been referred to prosecutors and the man is facing charges of homicide (殺人罪；致人死亡) and hit-and-run. The incident occured early Tuesday morning and closed circuit television footage has been aired on local TV news channels. The car can been seen hitting the nurse, making a U-turn, and then hitting her again, before leaving the scene. Emergency services were called to the scene immediately following the incident and the nurse was taken to a hospital, but efforts to resuscitate (急救使恢復生命跡象；施行復甦術) her were unsuccessful. Lai highlights expanded support for Taiwan athletes at Asian Games President Lai Ching-te is touting (宣揚；強調) his administration's increased support for Taiwan's athletes at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games -- saying the Ministry of Sports is "making every effort" to support them. Speaking at a flag-presentation ceremony at the Taiwan Sports Training Center in Kaohsiung, Lai touted highlighted expanded medical and rehabilitation services and increased support staffing. Lai said those increases are evidence (證據；證明) of the sports ministry's effort to provide the best possible support for Taiwan's athletes. Taiwan is sending 482 athletes to compete in 34 sports at the Games. The 2026 Asian Games will be held from September 19 to October 4. US FORCES DESTROY FIVE IRANIAN OIL TANKERS AS TEHRAN RETALIATES WITH MISSILE STRIKE ON JORDAN BASE The United States Central Command has confirmed American forces destroyed five Iranian crude oil tankers linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guard, striking targets near Kharg Island and the port city of Jask. The strikes came in retaliation (作為報復) after Iranian forces twice targeted a US Navy warship with ballistic missiles over the past two days — attacks the Pentagon says the warship successfully evaded (躲避；避開). Iran's Revolutionary Guard has responded by launching a ballistic missile attack on the Al-Azraq air base in Jordan, saying it struck hangars housing American fighter jets. Jagruti Dave reports from Washington. UK Flights Disrupted After Traffic Control System Malfunction A technical issue in the U.K. air traffic control system has led to the cancellation of more than 1,000 flights. That's according to flight-tracing website, Flightradar24.  Britain's National Air Traffic Services said there was a problem in its system on Tuesday that affected departing flights (出發航班). The problem was fixed but delays were expected to continue.  Fifteen airports across the U.K., including Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted, reported disruptions (中斷；擾亂；運作受阻) and advised passengers to check their flight status with their airline. The cause of the technical problem remains unclear. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened marginally higher this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,335 on turnover of 10.9-billion N-T. The market rose by over 700 points on Monday to close at its second-highest ever record as buying focused on large-cap semiconductor stocks after U-S tech companies rallied at the end of last week. Arrest warrant issued for missing senior aide indicted in lawmaker's corruption case The Taipei District Court has issued an arrest warrant for Kao Chin Su-mei's former legislative office director after he jumped bail. According to the court, police responded late Sunday after an electronic wrist monitor belonging to Chang Chun-chieh issued a low-battery alert. Police failed to locate Chang, but recovered his wrist monitor, which had been "broken and thrown away." Chang was indicted along with Kao Chin and 22 other people in early June on charges of corruption and fraud-related charges related to the embezzlement of public funds and the importation (進口) of unapproved COVID-19 test kits from China. He was released on 10-million N-T bail in June on health grounds. MOHW on this year's flu shots The Ministry of Health says it could purchase more enhanced flu vaccines if those being introduced into the government's free vaccination program this year prove to be effective. The statement comes after the ministry announced it had purchased 200,000 doses of enhanced flu vaccines - with residents of long-term care facilities being given priority. Health officials says if funding is available, it plans to purchases to 600,000 doses of the enhanced (增強的、提高的) vaccines next year. The first phase of the government's free flu vaccination program begins on October 1 and the Centers for Disease Control has said it purchased just over 7-million doses for the publicly funded program this year. Indonesia Flights Resume After Volcano Eruption Flights to and from Indonesia’s capital of Jakarta have resumed after ash from a volcanic eruption forced a two-day closure that halted nearly 3,000 flights. The transportation minister said Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and Halim Perdanakusuma Airport serving Jakarta reopened early today. Three smaller airports also reopened just after midnight, but three others remain closed until 10 a.m. The continuous eruption of Anak Krakatau with lava fountains and loud booms (轟，隆隆聲) ended Sunday but the volcanic island remained active Tuesday morning. The airport closures Sunday and Monday affected about 341-thousand passengers. CANADA'S RETALIATORY TARIFFS** TAKE EFFECT AS TRUMP THREATENS TO BAN** BOMBARDIER SALES IN THE US Canada has imposed retaliatory tariffs on more than twenty-seven billion dollars' worth of American goods, with levies of up to fifty per cent taking effect today. The move comes after US President Donald Trump threatened on Monday to ban the Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier from selling planes in the United States, writing on Truth Social that the company must build in America or lose access to the market. Quebec's premier has vowed defiance, saying her province will not allow anyone to dictate (決定，規定) where Canadian companies must produce. Jagruti Dave reports from Washington. Bayeaux Tapestry Goes on Display at British Museum The Bayeux Tapestry goes on display at the British Museum this week, marking its return to British soil for the first time since the 11th century. Tickets are sold out for months, and the museum expects 1 million visitors before the exhibition ends in July. The tapestry depicts the Norman conquest of England in 1066, a pivotal moment in European history. The tapestry's vivid scenes offer insights (見解) into 11th-century life and have sparked debates among historians. Its loan comes after years of diplomacy and is being hailed as a symbol of Franco-British friendship That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 【高雄出發 日本滑雪團限時優惠】 9/30前報名付訂，每人折$5,000 11/30前報名付訂，每人折$3,000 凡參加過滑雪團系列商品，老朋友獨享優惠每人再折$1,000 自備雪具者另享減價優惠 https://sofm.pse.is/9lpxdq -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 172-points this morning from Friday's close, at 46,724 on turnover of 14.1-billion N-T. The market gained ground Friday following two days of volatility, as investors reacted to a rise on Wall Street overnight, as big tech companies rallied. Artists welcome return of 'Taiwan Pavilion' name as Gwangju Biennale opens Taiwan artists and curators are welcoming the opening of the Gwangju Biennale's Pavilion Project's "Taiwan Pavilion." It follows a naming controversy that led to China's withdrawal from the event. The foundation had initially listed the pavilion as being part of the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts in promotional materials. However, it was agreed to allow it to use the name "Taiwan Pavilion" on August 26 following accusations of political censorship (政治審查) from artists and the Lai administration. China's curatorial team announced its withdrawal from the Pavilion Project last week, citing the participation of Taiwan. The Gwangju Biennale runs from now through Nov. 15. Taiwan tops foreign arrivals to Busan as flights surge South Korea's Yonhap News Agency is reporting that Taiwan has become the largest source of foreign visitors to Busan, following a sharp increase in direct flights. According to Yonhap, data shows a total of 2,927,674 foreign tourists visited Busan from January to July, 605,000 of whom were from Taiwan. Citing aviation statistics released by the Korea Airports Corporation, Yonhap says 6,609 flights operated between Busan and Taiwan in the first seven months of this year. That figure matched the total for all of 2024 and equivalent to 82.9-per cent of the flights recorded in all of 2025. NKorea Kim Commissions Second Naval Destroyer North Korea says leader Kim Jong Un has commissioned his second naval destroyer and called for building a more reliable nuclear deterrent. The report today came as the U.S., South Korea and Japan were to begin a trilateral military exercise that he views as a security threat. State media photos showed Kim toured the Kang Kon warship with his teenage daughter, who South Korea's spy service views as his likely heir. The ship and the Choe Hyon, commissioned (正式委托) in June, are both 5,000-ton destroyers equipped with nuclear-capable missiles, making them North Korea's most advanced warships. The development comes as North Korea is dialing up pressure on the U.S. after rebuffing President Donald Trump's decision to scale back a major military drill with South Korea in a conciliatory step toward Kim. US ENVOYS WITKOFF AND KUSHNER HOLD TALKS IN KYIV AFTER KREMLIN MEETING AS BOTH SIDES PAUSE STRIKES ON CAPITALS U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner say they have held encouraging talks in Kyiv. The trip on Sunday was their first official visit to Ukraine with European partners joining a third round of the discussions. The trip follows the American envoys' meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Saturday that produced no announced breakthroughs. Both Moscow and Kyiv have agreed to a three-day pause on strikes against each other's capitals while the diplomatic shuttle continues, though previous (先前的) attempts at a peace plan have foundered over security guarantees for Ukraine and territorial demands from Russia. Reporter Jagruti Dave in Washington says the limited ceasefire covering the two capitals has not stopped the fighting elsewhere, with Russia continuing to strike other Ukrainian cities and Ukraine hitting a Russian oil refinery. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 134-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,991 on turnover of 8.9-billion N-T. Record Kaohsiung rainfall causes NT$77 million in agricultural losses Kaohsiung officials say, record rainfall in the city has caused more than 77 million NT in agricultural losses. The city's Agricultural Bureau says that wax apple growers were hardest hit, losing around 80 hectares of crops worth over 18 million. Guava growers were the second worst affected, followed by papaya farmers. Kaohsiung received a cumulative (累計) 1712 milimeters of rainfall in August… surpassing the previous record for August rainfall, set in 1931, and was four times the month average. Tang Prize** exhibition opens in Taipei** The 2026 Tang Prize Exhibition opened yesterday at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The exhibition features the optical tool used by Sustainable Development laureate Susan Solomon nearly 40 years ago. The tool measured wavelengths of moonlight and scattered sunlight, helping prove that chlorofluorocarbons were the primary cause of the expanding ozone hole. Six 2026 laureates are scheduled to visit Taiwan later this month for the award ceremony, public lectures, and exchanges with students. The exhibition will run for two months with free admission (入場). IRAN CLAIMS FRESH OVERNIGHT STRIKES ON US BASES IN KUWAIT AND UAE AS KUWAIT CONDEMNS 'BLATANT AGGRESSION' Iran's military says it launched fresh overnight attacks on American bases in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, with Kuwaiti authorities condemning what they called blatant (明目張膽的) Iranian aggression. The strikes are the latest in a series of Iranian retaliatory actions against US forces across the region, with the Pentagon's casualty database now listing 767 American troops wounded in the six-month-old war. The White House has been trying to reshape the narrative around the conflict, with Vice President JD Vance telling reporters the initial military operation went exactly as US President Donald Trump had planned. Nick Harper, our reporter in Washington, saysVance pointed to what he described as behind-the-scenes cooperation from Beijing in pressuring Tehran economically. UN: Foreign Networks Fueling Sudan War The United Nations reports foreign networks are fueling Sudan's brutal war between the army and the Rapid Support Forces since 2023. The conflict has killed at least 59,000 people and displaced 13 million. The U.N. found groups from the UAE, Colombia, and Chad have facilitated money and weapon shipments, including drones, into Sudan. Investigators urge the U.N. Security Council to extend (延長) its arms embargo on Sudan. They documented drone attacks on civilians that may be war crimes. The U.S. seeks new sanctions to pressure the warring parties into negotiations. Brazil Approves Bill Regulating Critical Mineral Exploration Brazil’s Senate has approved a bill to regulate the exploration of critical minerals, including rare earths, marking a step toward exploiting its vast reserves. The bill approved Thursday now awaits the president's signature. It establishes a legal framework and offers tax incentives for domestic processing. Brazil holds the world’s second-largest reserves of rare earth elements, used in products like smartphones and electric vehicles. While China dominates the global supply chain, Brazil aims to position itself as an alternative (替代方案). The bill also creates a fund to support mining projects and encourages mineral processing within the country. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 【高雄出發 日本滑雪團限時優惠】 9/30前報名付訂，每人折$5,000 11/30前報名付訂，每人折$3,000 凡參加過滑雪團系列商品，老朋友獨享優惠每人再折$1,000 自備雪具者另享減價優惠 https://sofm.pse.is/9kzlzw -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened 161-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,325 on turnover of $10-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan fell sharply Wednesday as a spike (急遽上升) in international crude oil prices amid renewed United States attacks on Iran heightened fears of inflationary pressures. The bellwether electronics index fell 2.06 percent after contract chipmaker TSMC shed 2.25 percent, and with the tech sector facing a sell-off, buying rotated to select old economy stocks as safe havens (避險標的). The financial sector also outperformed the broader market, rising 0.45 percent, as analysts say many stocks have been undervalued, encouraging bargain hunters to buy. Civil groups calls for relase of HK activist  Civil groups are calling for the release of Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong after he pleaded guilty (認罪) to a national security charge with a potential life sentence. Representatives from groups including Amnesty International Taiwan and the Taiwan Hong Kong Association called for Wong's release and for charges against him to be dropped. They also urged an end to what they called the use of national security laws to suppress (壓制／打壓) peaceful advocacy and freedom of expression (言論自由). They also called on Taiwan's government to publicly speak out over Wong's case. The 29 year old is already serving a 4 year 8 month prison sentence in a separate national security case, which he had been expected to complete early next year. Congo Ebola Outbreak Kills Over 3000 Congo’s Ebola outbreak (疫情爆發) has killed more than 3,000 people out of more than 6,100 confirmed cases. That's according to the latest government statistics from Wednesday.  Numbers from Congo's Ministry of Health show that the outbreak has recorded 6,186 confirmed cases including 3,007 deaths since it was declared in mid-May. It remains the fastest-growing outbreak of the disease ever.  The disease has continued to spread rapidly for several reasons.  They included conflict in the eastern region of the country where the outbreak is concentrated (集中於). The resumption of school in the middle of the outbreak has also raised concerns about transmission in classrooms. Top US doctors offer updated flu and COVID vaccine recommendations, aiming to ease confusion Top US doctors offer updated flu and COVID vaccine recommendations, aiming to ease confusion AP correspondent Ed Donahue reports on new vaccination (疫苗接種) recommendations. Macron and King Charles Visit Bayeux Tapestry French President Emmanuel Macron and Britain's King Charles III have visited the Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum. They hailed the 1,000-year-old artwork as a symbol of the intertwined (緊密交織的) histories of France and Britain. The tapestry, depicting (描繪) the 1066 Norman conquest of England, is on loan from France for a 10-month exhibition. This marks the first time it has been in Britain since the 11th century.  The visit underscores efforts to strengthen ties between the two nations, especially following Brexit. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Macron are due to hold talks today. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. THSRC Apologizes for Signal Failure Causing Delays A signal failure near Taipei Station caused train delays across the Taiwan High Speed Rail network last night. High speed rail officials reported that a turnout mechanism malfunctioned at the northern end of Taipei Station at 8:42 p.m. Maintenance crews were deployed immediately, and normal train operations were restored by 9:36 p.m. Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. apologized for the travel disruptions (中斷 / 擾亂), and confirmed that passengers delayed between 30 and 60 minutes qualify for a 50% ticket refund. Travelers affected by the service delay have up to one year to claim their refund at any high-speed rail station. (NS) CWA Rain Advisories for South and East The Central Weather Administration issued heavy rain advisories for Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and Taitung on Wednesday due to a persistent low-pressure system. The CWA warns that strong southwest winds will drive intense convective cloud systems across Taiwan through Sept. 4-th, bringing localized downpours, lightning, and strong gusts. Forecasters say two tropical storms, Saudel and Krovanh, are currently tracking within the broader low-pressure system but are not expected to directly impact Taiwan. But they say heavy accumulated rainfall over consecutive (連續的) days increases the risk of landslides and rockfalls in mountainous regions, alongside localized flooding in low-lying areas. The CWA says conditions are expected to improve gradually starting Sept. 5 as atmospheric moisture shifts south away from Taiwan. (NS) US STRIKES IRGC TARGETS IN IRAN AS TEHRAN RETALIATES AGAINST AMERICAN FORCES IN JORDAN AND UAE The United States has launched a fresh wave of strikes against Iran's Revolutionary Guard, targeting air defence sites, radar systems and maritime assets near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has struck back, with its Revolutionary Guard saying it targeted American forces in Jordan and the United Arab Emirates — though authorities in both countries say all the Iranian weapons were intercepted (攔截) or fell without causing damage. US President Donald Trump has warned Tehran that any further retaliation will be met with force at what he called a much harder and higher level. Jagruti Dave reports from Washington. Canada PM Pushes Back Against Trump Admin Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says the Trump administration needs to “stop trying to be tough.” He was pushing back against a fresh wave of attacks from Washington. Carney says Tuesday that U.S.-Canada trade talks could resume if Washington became serious about negotiations. But he also accused the United States of pursuing terms that could leave Canadian industries “gradually wound down (逐步縮減) in Canada and wiped out." Carney commented after a new barrage of attacks from Washington since trade talks collapsed, including Trump’s move to rename Lake Ontario “Lake America” and his social media posts taunting Canada and U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s social media post mocking female Canadian cadets. China Xi Visiting Egypt China’s President Xi Jinping visits Egypt this week for the first time in a decade. Xi arrived Tuesday evening lcoal time at the Cairo airport, which was adorned with Chinese and Egyptian flags. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and military guards greeted him on the tarmac (停機坪／跑道) with a red-carpet ceremony. The leaders are scheduled to hold talks today, and Xi plans to visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, near the pyramids of Giza. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 49-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,177 on turnover of 10-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan ended lower Monday despite a late rally as bargain hunting emerged ahead of an increase in the local market's weighting under the latest MSCI regular index review. The market came under pressure initially after U.S. stocks fell Friday, following hawkish remarks by Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh, and the early downturn also reflected a spike in crude oil prices following renewed military strikes in the Middle East. Taiwan Day to showcase Taiwanese culture in Poland The National Cultural Association of Taiwan is holding a two-day "Taiwan Day" cultural event in Poland later this month… featuring Taiwanese contemporary dance and folk arts (民間藝術), plus a market showcasing Taiwanese food and culture. A social media post said that performances at the event will "transform the Polish streets into a Taiwan temple front." The event on September 11th and 12th will see stalls showcasing Taiwanese foods and goods, including dumplings, which are described as the Taiwanese counterpart to Polish pierogi. At a promotional press event in Taipei, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, who also serves as NCAT vice president, said the cultural tour is aimed at inspiring Europeans to visit Taiwan and experience the country. TRUMP HINTS AT FURTHER MILITARY ACTION AGAINST IRAN DESPITE SHIFT TO SANCTIONS STRATEGY US President Donald Trump has warned that the door remains open to further military strikes on Iran, delivering a blunt assessment of Tehran's weakened state while speaking to reporters at the White House. The comments came as the Washington Post reported that Iran's economy is feeling new pain from the latest sanctions campaign, though analysts doubt the measures will bring Tehran to the negotiating table. Iran has rejected (拒絕) the sanctions, with its economy minister saying the new measures will fail. Mitch Mccann in New York says a social media post by US President Donald Trump showing an AI-generated image of bombs hitting Iran's main oil export facility has raised concerns about what the White House may be planning. Congo Ebola Tops 6Thousand Cases Congo’s authorities report that the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak in history has topped 6,000 cases with 2,911 deaths. More than 1,360 people have recovered from the virus which authorities on Monday called an “encouraging” development. The outbreak in eastern Congo is spreading under extremely (極為) difficult conditions. Insecurity, displacement, a health workers’ strike and intense population movements fuel the crisis. The virus spread into two new health zones in the region last week. The World Health Organization says it remains out of control and is on track to surpass the 2014-2016 West Africa Ebola outbreak which is the deadliest on record. Indonesia Mt Sinabung Erupts Mount Sinabung in Indonesia has erupted, spewing black ash and smoke into the sky over Sumatra island. Gray ash covered several villages after Monday's eruption, and authorities distributed (分發) masks to residents to protect themselves. People were advised to refrain from activities in nearby villages in Karo district in North Sumatra province and areas within 6 kilometers of the summit. No casualties, evacuations or disruptions to flights were reported. I ndonesia’s Geological Agency raised the alert to the second-highest level for volcanic activity and expanded the safe zone around the mountain. Sinabung has had increased volcanic activity recently, and the agency's chief said a larger eruption (噴發) could occur. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9krz5g -- Kurt Wu X 中信 X 米米立 X Bonny&Read 天天登入抽聯名活動 📍活動路徑：中信銀行APP>右下角更多>數位點任務牆>【天天登入抽】前往活動頁 👉立即抽獎> https://sofm.pse.is/9lk52t -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

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Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 96-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,070 on turnover of 12.5-billion N-T. Government preparing search and rescue team after Nepal‑Tibet flood The government says its has prepared Taiwan's national search and rescue team to travel to Nepal following the deadly flash floods near the Nepal‑China border earlier this week. According to the National Fire Agency, it has ordered the national special search and rescue team and rotating (輪流) units from Tainan, Hsinchu City and Chiayi County to prepare for departure. Fire Agency Director‑General Hsiao Huang‑chang says although Taiwan has yet to receive a request for help, the national special rescue and research team will respond in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to any such requests from affected countries. And the foreign ministry says there have been no reports of any Taiwan nationals being trapped or affected by the disaster. Russia Launches Attacks on Ukraine with Drones and Missiles Russia has launched a major attack on Ukraine that targeted nine cities with missiles and drones. The assault began Wednesday night and continued into Thursday. The strikes hit areas such as the capital Kyiv and caused civilian casualties. Ukrainian officials say that Russia builds up missile stocks to exhaust (用完，耗盡) air defenses. Ukraine has targeted Russian sites including online retailers in response. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy emphasized the need for more air defense support from the United States and Europe. Zelenskyy is due to visit Moldova which reported drones breaching its airspace. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns among Russia's neighbors about a potential wider conflict. TRUMP SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER RENAMING LAKE ONTARIO 'LAKE AMERICA' AS CANADA REJECTS THE MOVE US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order renaming Lake Ontario as "Lake America," deepening the rift with Canada that has already triggered (觸發) retaliatory tariffs worth billions of dollars. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has rejected the name change, saying Canadians will continue to use the lake's original name, which derives from an indigenous Wendat word more than four hundred years old. Jagruti Dave, our reporter in Washington, says the executive order has limited practical effect beyond US federal maps, and other countries are unlikely to adopt the new name. Malaysia to Repatriate Myanmar Nationals Malaysia is set to repatriate nearly 1-thousand-500 Myanmar nationals this weekend as part of a voluntary program. The Home Ministry announced Thursday that this is the first phase of a broader (更廣泛的) effort involving 5,000 eligible individuals. The first group, identified by Myanmar’s government, will be sent back on Sept. 29 on Myanmar's navy vessels. As of Aug. 15, the ministry said over 10-thousand Myanmar nationals were held in immigration detention depots (拘留所). It said the government is also introducing a new Refugee Registration Document to manage refugees and asylum seekers. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 57-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,890 on turnover of 8.4-billion N-T. However, the main board surged nearly 400 points within ten minutes of the opening bell to bounce back over the 46,000 mark, as investors were boosted by Nvidia's latest quarterly results - which beat expectations. AI-related and heavyweight electronics stocks are in focus this morning. Lawmakers to vote on drone procurement bills today Lawmakers are voting today on competing (競爭的) drone procurement (採購) bills. The vote had originally been scheduled for tomorrow. However, Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu proposed bringing it forward during cross-party caucus talks. The legislative caucuses agreed to move up the vote to allow lawmakers to return to their districts to inspect damage caused by the recent heavy rains and flooding in southern Taiwan. However, the D-P-P, K-M-T and Taiwan People's Party caucuses failed to agree on key aspects of the bills, including which ministry will oversee the drone procurement program, the budget for drone procurement and whether annual spending caps will be imposed. ASF found in** pig carcass in Kinmen and pork shipments suspended** The Kinmen County Government has suspended shipments of pork and processed pork products to Taiwan proper and other outlying islands after a African swine fever was detected in the carcass of a pig that had washed ashore. The suspension (暫停) of shipments of processed pork products runs until next Monday. Live pigs from Kinmen are already banned from being shipped to Taiwan proper and other outlying islands under existing regulations. According to Kinmen County Department of Economic Development, the pig carcass was found on the shoreline at Wu-sha-jiao in Jin-ning Township on Saturday by Coast Guard personnel. County animal health officials disinfected the site as well as the surrounding area. USArmy to spend $2B to build nuclear microreactors at 5 bases as US seeks to ramp up nuclear power The US Army is set to spend $2-billion dollars to build nuclear microreactors (微型核反應爐) at 5 bases as the country seeks to ramp up nuclear power. AP's Lisa Dwyer reports Canada PM to Address EU Parliament Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will address the European Parliament next month in a high-profile visit that underscores Canada’s push to deepen ties with Europe. The announcement Wednesday comes after a sharp break with the United States under President Donald Trump as the trade war escalates. The prime minister will also attend the European Union’s annual State of the Union address. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is scheduled to deliver her annual address Sept. 16. Carney is expected to speak the following day. The visit comes days after U.S.-Canada trade talks collapsed and Trump imposed new 50% tariffs on about $20 billion worth of Canadian goods, prompting (推動，使) Ottawa to announce retaliatory tariffs. Carney has set a goal of doubling Canada’s non-U.S. exports over the next decade as he seeks to reduce the country’s economic dependence on the United States. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ (裕富數位 | 吉速袋) 資金需求別久等，線上操作超便利！ 手機、機車多筆申請免抵押 全程線上辦理3步驟 專人依序審核，核准後最快當日撥款。 立即了解資金方案：https://sofm.pse.is/9m9dvg (警語)總費用年百分率約16.45%~24.15%。年利率15.75%~15.99%，手續費1~2.5千元不等。詳參裕富官網。實際撥款時間與條件視審核而定。請謹慎理財。 -- 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9kbkd3 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 12-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,158 on turnover of $7-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Tuesday as major semiconductor stocks recouped early losses, but turnover remained moderate with as investors opted to sit on the sidelines as they wait for Nvidia's second-quarterly earnings results. Free flu and COVID-19 vaccination program to start on October 1 The Centers for Disease Control says this year's government-funded seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccinations will begin as usual on October 1. According to the C-D-C, it has purchased a record 7.05-million publicly funded flu vaccine doses for the upcoming flu season. The C-D-C also says the government has also purchased 2.4-million COVID-19 vaccine doses, including 1.9 million doses of newer-generation (新一代) vaccines for people aged 12 years or older. The publicly funded flu and COVID-19 vaccination program will open on October 1 for adults aged 65 and older, preschool-aged children, healthcare and disease prevention personnel, and people with chronic illnesses. Adults aged between 50 and 64 without high-risk chronic conditions will be eligible for the free flu and COVID-19 jabs from November 2. Haiti Attack Leaves Dozens Dead and Kidnapped The United Nations says armed men have killed at least 47 people and kidnapped over 50 others near Haiti’s capital. This attack, which took place Sunday in Kenscoff, is believed to be one of the largest mass kidnappings in Haiti in recent years. A gang leader has threatened to kill the hostages if authorities harm any gang members. The attack challenges the belief that security in Haiti is improving. Experts say it poses (造成) a major test for the government and police. The attack might also be a show of force as Haiti prepares for general elections in December. CANADA HITS BACK WITH RETALIATORY TARIFFS ON MORE THAN 700 US PRODUCTS AS TRUMP ESCALATES RHETORIC Canada on Tuesday announced retaliatory tariffs on more than seven hundred American products, doubling duties on steel and aluminium to fifty per cent and imposing (強制實行) new levies on electronics, dairy and clothing. The move came after trade talks collapsed late on Friday, prompting Washington to impose fifty per cent tariffs on roughly twenty billion dollars' worth of Canadian goods. US President Donald Trump has responded with a barrage of personal attacks on Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and has floated renaming Lake Ontario. Kate Fisher reports from Washington. US Empire State Building Glow Pink in Dolly Parton Tribute New York City's Empire State Building is illuminating its tower lights in pink in memory of American icon Dolly Parton, and in support of the Imagination Library. Parton, who was 80 years old, died in Nashville after a brief (短暫的) battle with cancer. For nearly six decades, Parton was a singular force in music, film, television and philanthropy. She wrote some of country music's most enduring songs and also starred in films. Parton also launched the Imagination Library in 1995, a literacy program that now sends more than 3 million free books each month to children from birth through age five across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and Ireland. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 你的職涯卡關了嗎? 高屏澎東分署青年職涯發展中心YS陪你跨出關鍵下一步！ 專為 15-29 歲青年提供「完全免費」的職涯服務： 職涯探索：職涯諮詢、適性測驗 認識職場：職人講座、職場參訪 職場續航：實戰技能、企業主管與心理師指引 點我報名活動：https://sofm.pse.is/9lt66r 以上廣告由勞動部勞動力發展署高屏澎東分署提供 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 33-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,728 on turnover of 5-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Monday, reversing earlier gains amid concerns about a possible major pullback following recent strong showing prompted many investors to stay on the sidelines, resulting in lower turnover. Business group raises concerns over labor shortage in white paper The Taiwan-based Chinese National Federation of Industries says labor shortages are a major issue facing the country's industrial development. The warning is included in the federation's 2026 white paper. According to federation vice chairman Zhan Cheng-tien, a declining birth rate and aging population are worsening the labor shortage and the lack of workers is a pressing challenge in terms of enhancing industrial innovation (工業創新) and economic resilience. The white paper suggests the government review its policy on migrant workers by shifting from a focus on the 3-K industries -- those considered to dangerous, dirty and intense -- to one guided by actual labor shortages. The federation is also urging the government to extend the length of time industrial migrant workers can stay in Taiwan from 12 to 14 years. Donations for Kumamoto earthquake surpass NT$300 million mark And, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says donations raised by the government to help people affected by the magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Japan's Kumamoto Prefecture late last month have surpassed (超越) 300-million N-T. The designated Mega International Commercial Bank account was set up on August 1 and will continue to accept public donations until August 31. According to the foreign ministry, the government and its Japanese counterparts are still discussing how the funds will be used to assist post-disaster relief efforts after the one-month donation period ends. The government has also already donated 5-million N-T to support Japan's reconstruction efforts following the earthquake. US TREASURY SECRETARY UNVEILS 'OPERATION ECONOMIC OUTCAST' SANCTIONS CAMPAIGN AGAINST IRAN BUT HOLDS OFF ON IMMEDIATE PENALTIES US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has unveiled (公佈) a sweeping new sanctions campaign against Iran dubbed "Operation Economic Outcast" — but stopped short of imposing immediate penalties, describing the announcement as a "warning shot" to countries still doing business with Tehran. Iran's currency hit a record low on Monday as the new measures were announced, while Iran's Supreme National Security Council secretary warned that no oil would leave the Persian Gulf if the campaign is broadened. The sanctions target a network of brokers, companies and shadow-fleet vessels across several countries that transport Iranian oil and channel revenue to Iran's Revolutionary Guard. Nick Harper reports from Washington. HRW Colombia Criminals Recruiting Children for Dangerous Tasks A new Human Rights Watch report says drug gangs and rebel groups in Colombia are increasingly recruiting children for dangerous tasks, including piloting drones carrying explosives. The report published Monday also highlights how the groups use social media to recruit children, especially in rural areas. The groups profit from the drug trade, extortion and illegal mining in those areas. Colombia’s Human Rights Defenders' Office says at least 1,500 children have been recruited (被招募) since 2021. Human Rights Watch urges the Colombian government and social media platforms to take stronger action against child recruitment. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ (裕富數位 | 吉速袋) 資金需求別久等，線上操作超便利！ 手機、機車多筆申請免抵押 全程線上辦理3步驟 專人依序審核，核准後最快當日撥款。 立即了解資金方案：https://sofm.pse.is/9m9dxb (警語)總費用年百分率約16.45%~24.15%。年利率15.75%~15.99%，手續費1~2.5千元不等。詳參裕富官網。實際撥款時間與條件視審核而定。請謹慎理財。 -- 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9krz4v -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened marginally higher this morning from Friday's close, at 45,240 on turnover of 5.1-billion N-T. The market closed higher Friday as tech heavyweights rebounded from earlier weakness on bargain hunting. However, turnover was down from its five-day average of 880-billion N-T. Lai uses 1958 Kinmen defense ceremony to push his defense budget President Lai Ching-te says he believes that successful defense of Kinmen in 1958 is a prime example of "peace through strength. The statement came as Lai was attending the annual memorial of the anniversary of a Chinese artillery bombardment of Kinmen at the beginning of the Second Taiwan Strait Crisis. Speaking to the ceremony, Lai said the heroes in Kinmen - regardless of the their backgrounds - united as one to repel the aggression of communist totalitarianism and urged cross-party unity to supporting his 2027 defense budget. Prior to delivering his speech, Lai burned incense, laid a wreath (花圈), and bowed his head to pay his respects amid pouring rain to the soldiers who successfully repelled the attempted Chinese invasion of Kinmen. Taiwan-born astronaut to appear at Washington Nationals Taiwan day Taiwan-born NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren is set to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Washington Nationals second Taiwan Heritage Day at Nationals Park on August 29. According to the Millennial Global Youth Foundation, which organizes of the annual Taiwan Heritage Day, Lindgren was chosen for the honor because of his status as an accomplished (技藝高超，有造詣) astronaut who connects Taiwan and the U-S through his multicultural heritage. Lindgren, whose Chinese name is Lin Chi-erh, was born in Taipei in 1973 while his father was serving in the U-S Air Force in Taiwan and lived in Taichung for more than two years. His mother is Taiwanese. TRUMP SIGNALS NO RETREAT ON CANADA TARIFFS AS TRADE WAR ESCALATES US President Donald Trump has posted on social media that Canada wants the benefits of being a state without being one, signalling no retreat after fifty per cent tariffs on Canadian goods came into force on Saturday. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced retaliatory (報復性的) tariffs targeting American steel, dairy and electronics from the eighth of September, saying Washington asked too much and offered too little. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer says there are no new talks planned with Ottawa. Jagruti Dave has more from Washington. Guinea Refuse Site Landslide Kills 30 Guinea's civil protection service says a mountainous heap of refuse has collapsed at Dar Es Salam, the largest landfill in the capital of Conakry, killing 30 people. Heavy rain that started around 2 a.m. on Sunday washed over the refuse, triggering a landslide that buried nearby shacks. Officials say the site — an open-air waste dump that is the largest in the city — had been designated for (指定用於) closure on Sunday. Locals living around the landfill had been given eviction notices, which forced many to leave the area, but many others were still around at the time of the disaster, according to authorities. Indonesia Arrests Amid Forest and Peatland Fires Indonesian authorities have arrested 72 people suspected of starting forest and peatland fires. The fires have caused a choking haze cloud in central and west Indonesia. Officials say the fires are driven by an intensifying El Nino pattern and a prolonged dry season. The agency resumed cloud-seeding operations, deploying helicopters for water-bombing missions. Authorities are investigating whether companies financed the land clearing, which could expand the probe (調查) beyond those arrested. The blazes have spread smoke into Malaysia, straining relations with neighboring countries. On Sunday, parts of Borneo and South Sumatra were heavily affected. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9kbknp -- Kurt Wu X 中信 X 米米立 X Bonny&Read 天天登入抽聯名活動 📍活動路徑：中信銀行APP>右下角更多>數位點任務牆>【天天登入抽】前往活動頁 👉立即抽獎> https://sofm.pse.is/9lun42 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened up 222-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,942 on turnover of 12.1-billion N-T. The market closed in negative territory (下跌；收黑) on Wednesday, as the main board was dragged down (拖累) by the tech sector after A-I stocks were the heaviest losers on Wall Street overnight amid investor criticism that their prices have moved too high. Probe into allegations against Geneva envoy could take two months Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung says an ongoing investigation into numerous allegations (指控) against the Lai administration's representative in Geneva is likely to take two months. According to Lin, Greg Lee has now returned to Taiwan and is cooperating with investigators. The statements come after the foreign ministry received complaints that detailed seven categories of alleged serious misconduct by Lee…including workplace bullying (職場霸凌), incompetent leadership and using public resources for personal purposes. The foreign ministry's Personnel Department has said if the investigation finds that Lee was engaged in workplace bullying, he will be removed from his post in Geneva and face follow-up disciplinary action. Southern township prepares pole-climbing contest for Ghost Festival Hengchun Township in Pingtung County is preparing for its annual Ghost Festival pole-climbing contest on August 27. Organizers have erected (豎立；搭建) a 21-meter bamboo lantern pole in a traditional ritual inviting wandering spirits (孤魂野鬼) to join the festivities. Using an excavator, workers hoisted (吊起) the 21-meter pole onto the roof of the competition structure -- a raised structure supported by 36 wooden poles for the event. Locally known as Ciang-gu (搶孤), the contest sees five-member teams form a human pyramid and help a climber scale (攀爬) a 13-meter wooden pole slicked with beef fat to seize a ceremonial flag at the top. The first team to do so wins a prize of 350,000 N-T.  TRUMP CONFIRMS HE WILL MEET KIM JONG UN THIS YEAR AS NORTH KOREA DISMISSES DIPLOMATIC OVERTURES US President Donald Trump has confirmed he plans to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this year, with a possible summit on the sidelines of the APEC gathering in November. Pyongyang has so far poured cold water on (對…潑冷水；降低…的可能性) the prospect of talks, with Kim Jong Un's sister Kim Yo Jong saying she is not aware of any communication between the two nations. President Trump's confirmation comes as he faces criticism over his decision to cut short joint military drills with South Korea. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Canada US Closer to Trade Agreement Canada and the United States have moved closer to finalizing a trade agreement that would avert (避免；防止) threatened 50% U.S. tariffs. A senior Canadian official calls the emerging terms “a very good deal for Canada” while cautioning that negotiations are not complete. The senior Canadian official said the emerging agreement would provide greater certainty, protect Canada’s dairy sector and jobs threatened by the new tariffs, and preserve what Ottawa considers favorable trade terms with the United States. The tariffs on about $20 billion dollars worth of Canadian imports have been postponed until 12:01 a.m. Saturday. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has also asked provincial premiers to return U.S. alcohol to store shelves, according to Nova Scotia's premier. Nearly 72% of Canada’s goods exports last year went to the United States.  And analysts say the Trump administration might be wary of (對…有所顧忌；保持警惕) imposing a hefty new tariff, paid by U.S. importers who try to pass along the cost to consumers via higher prices, ahead of November’s midterm elections. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened down 237-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,071 on turnover of 9-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday as investors opted to pocket gains from recent sessions amid concerns over volatility (波動) in the market on the settlement of August futures contracts. 4 firms and 15 individuals indicted in contaminated cooking oil scandal The Taichung District Prosecutors' Office has indicted (起訴) four companies and 15 individuals in connection with the recent contaminated cooking oil scandal involving Central Union Oil Corporation. All of the defendants (被告) have been charged with violating the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation as well for forgery (偽造) and fraud. According to the prosecutors' office, Central Union senior executives were aware that certain shipments of soybeans imported from Brazil had higher levels of heat damage, increasing the risk of a carcinogen (致癌物) forming during the manufacturing process. Prosecutors say they loosened the company's heat-damage control standard without introducing corresponding measures such as increased testing and monitoring in order to avoid immediately reporting the issue. The case affected more than 13,000 businesses across Taiwan. 'A Foggy Tale' named Taiwan's Oscars submission The Ministry of Culture has announced that "A Foggy Tale" will represent Taiwan in the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards. The movie was directed by Chen Yu-hsun and is set during the White Terror era. The selection committee says it chose the film for its vivid characters, compelling (引人入勝的) storytelling and portrayal (刻畫；描寫) of the lives of everyday people during one of Taiwan's darkest chapters. The movie was released last November here in Taiwan and and won Best Narrative Feature, Best Original Screenplay (劇本), Best Makeup and Costume Design and Best Art Direction at the 62nd Golden Horse Awards. The 99th Academy Awards are scheduled to take place on March 14, 2027. META STANDS TRIAL IN OAKLAND AS FOUR US STATES SEEK UP TO $1.4 TRILLION OVER ALLEGED CHILD HARMS The trial of Meta over alleged (被指控的；涉嫌的) child harms from Instagram and Facebook has begun in Oakland, California, with opening statements from both sides on Tuesday. Four US states are seeking up to one-point-four trillion dollars in damages, alleging the company knowingly (明知地；蓄意地) designed its platforms to hook young users. Meta's chief executive Mark Zuckerberg is among the witnesses prosecutors plan to call during the six-week trial. Ira Spitzer has more from San Francisco. Peru Remains Found Near Historic Lima Cultural Site Archaeologists in Peru have unveiled (公布；展示) skeletal remains (遺骸) near Huaca Pucllana, an ancient pyramid in Lima. They believe the remains are of a man sacrificed in a ritual linked to a ceremonial pool. The body was found inside a canal, positioned with the skull facing the pyramid and the Pacific Ocean. Experts say the bones will help researchers understand the rituals of the Lima culture. The Lima culture thrived (蓬勃發展；繁盛) between the first and seventh centuries, long before the Inca Empire. Huaca Pucllana was a key ceremonial center and is now a tourist site. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 65-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,922 on turnover of 8.4-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher, but on reduced turnover on Monday as investors appeared reluctant to chase prices amid concerns of a major pullback and instead opted to lock-in early gains in large-cap tech stocks. Premier Cho declines to countersign child savings legislation Premier Cho Jung-tai has refused to countersign the Special Act on Taiwan Future Accounts. The Act which was passed by lawmakers in July. According to the Cabinet, Cho is refusing to sign the Act due to violations of constitutional principles and due to concerns that it could allow wealthier families to accumulate larger amounts and ultimately (最終) widen the wealth gap, violating the principle of proportionality (比例原則 ， 相稱性原則). Cabinet spokeswoman Michelle Lee says the government will instead continue implementing the family support measures it approved in May. It's the sixth time since December 2025 that the Premier has refused to countersign legislation. Taiwan and New Zealand announce six areas for deeper economic cooperation Taiwan and New Zealand have agreed on six areas for closer cooperation over the next three years. The agreement was reached during a joint committee meeting to review the implementation (執行) results of the Agreement between New Zealand and the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu on Economic Cooperation. That agreement has been in effect since December 2013. According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, delegates at the 13th ANZTEC Joint Committee meeting discussed the results of the implementation of previous provisions such as food safety inspections and plant quarantine, e-commerce and intellectual property. The ministry says members of Taiwan delegation also voiced their hopes that reviews concerning the agreement's growth will continue. US Senator to Introduce Resolution Barring MIlitary Action Against Oman Senator Tim Kaine, a Democrat from Virginia, has announced plans to introduce a resolution barring military action against Oman when the US Senate returns from its August recess. It's a direct response to US President Donald Trump's threat to bomb the Gulf state if it interferes (幹擾) in a deal over control of the Strait of Hormuz. The threat came as a 60-day deadline for a wider peace deal between Washington and Tehran expired on Monday without agreement, with no concrete plans (具體計畫，實質規畫) to end the 24-week war. The White House says it is now shifting to what it calls an economic pressure campaign, with a fresh round of sanctions expected in the coming days. James Gooderson reports from Washington. Brazil President Warms to Oil Drilling in Northern Coastal Regions Brazil’s President Lula da Silva says oil drilling in northern coastal regions could be a "passport to the country’s future." He visited a Petrobras offshore drilling vessel on Monday, following a find announced last week near the Amazon River. Petrobras detected hydrocarbons off Amapa state, suggesting significant (重要的，有份量的) reserves. Lula emphasizes Brazil's commitment to biofuel innovation and renewable energy. He faces a tight election in October and is balancing drilling with alternative energy efforts. The region could hold up to 10 billion barrels of oil. Lula's announcement aligns with his election campaign, aiming to gain support in northern Brazil. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9krz5e -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 30-points this morning from Friday's close, at 45,841 on turnover of 10.9-billion N-T. The market lost ground last Friday, on profit taking ahead of the nearest technical resistance around 46,000 points as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing gave up its earlier gains. Lawmakers to attend Asian Pacific Parliamentarians' Union meetings A delegation of 13 lawmakers is slated to travel to to Japan later this month to attend the Asian Pacific Parliamentarians’ Union 54th General Assembly and 88th Council Meeting. The delegation will be led by Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang. The event this year will held under the themes of inter-parliamentary cooperation to maintain (維持) a free and open economic order and strengthen regional supply chain resilience. Taiwan hosted the Asian Pacific Parliamentarians’ Union General Assembly last year. Starlux's Sorayama-themed A350 arrives in Taiwan A Starlux Airbus A350-1000 featuring livery by renowned Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama has arrived at Taoyuan International Airport. The aircraft, named "Airsorayama Gold," is at the airport ahead of its commercial debut flight (首航) on the carrier's Taipei-Tokyo route later this week. Starlux says it is the second plane in the airline's "Starlux Airsorayama" art project, which showcases Sorayama's signature metallic aesthetic. The new aircraft features a gold-themed livery and the airline says it complements its first Sorayama-designed jet, the "Airsorayama Silver." The aircraft is scheduled to enter commercial service on Starlux's Taipei-Narita route starting Thursday. TRUMP ORDERS PENTAGON TO SCALE BACK JOINT MILITARY EXERCISES WITH SOUTH KOREA HOURS BEFORE DRILLS DUE TO BEGIN US President Donald Trump has ordered Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth to scale back annual joint military exercises with South Korea, posting on Truth Social just hours before the drills were due to begin that they send a message he called hostile to North Korea. The Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises were set to run for eleven days and involve (使參與) around eighteen thousand South Korean troops alongside American forces stationed on the peninsula. The announcement came days after North Korea's eleventh ballistic missile test of the year, and a day after President Trump posted a photograph of himself alongside North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Reporter Nick Harper in Washington says Trump also linked the decision to South Korea's refusal to support the American-led campaign in Iran. Italy Museum Theft Thieves have stolen four works attributed to Sicilian Renaissance painter Antonello da Messina from a regional museum in the city of Messina in Sicily. According to local news, the theft occurred on Saturday during the Italian Ferragosto holiday. The thieves bypassed (繞過、避開) alarm systems in the evening, taking three panels of the San Gregorio Polyptych and a double-sided panel of the Virgin Mary and the dead Christ. The museum was closed on Sunday while investigators gathered evidence. The theft comes just days after police in the northern Italian city of Parma announced that they had recovered three stolen artworks by Renoir, Cézanne and Matisse worth about $11.5 million US dollars. Five people have been detained in the March theft in Parma province. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 82 points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,104 on turnover of 10.5-billion N-T. MOFA warns on Uganda travel The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Ugandan immigration officers have withheld the passports of three Taiwan travelers and demanded that they produce Chinese passports, citing the country's "One China principle." According to the minister, three encountered the officers on arriving at Entebbe International Airport on Wednesday. They were eventually allowed to enter Uganda. However, the foreign ministry says immigration officers refused to return their Taiwan passports unless they produced passports issued by China in which entry stamps could be placed. Taiwan's representative office in Somaliland, which is responsible for affairs involving Uganda, and the Taiwanese business association in the country immediately provided assistance to the travelers. The foreign ministry is advising Taiwan nationals to carefully assess (評估) the necessity and potential risks of traveling to Uganda and to postpone planned visits for the time being. NKorea Threatens SelfDefense Amid US SKorean Drills North Korea has threatened to exercise its right to self-defense in a statement that slammed the upcoming U.S.-South Korean military drills as a war rehearsal. In a statement carried by state media Friday, North Korea's Foreign Ministry called the U.S.-South Korean training “a rehearsal for an aggressive war” that is triggering a different level of instability in the region. North Korea also said the drills would be of a “more serious provocative (挑釁的) nature and dangerousness than last year" and involve all the military assets and war-fighting modes of the U.S. and South Korea. The U.S. and South Korea have described the training's scope this year as similar to past years. They say the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises are meant to strengthen their alliance’s capability and reiterate that the drills are defensive in nature. US CARRIER ROTATION AIMS TO SUSTAIN IRAN BLOCKADE 'INDEFINITELY' AS NAVY READINESS STRETCHED THIN US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claims the American military can maintain its naval blockade on Iran indefinitely by rotating aircraft carriers in and out of the Strait of Hormuz. The carrier currently enforcing the blockade has been at sea for a record two hundred consecutive days, prompting growing concern among lawmakers in Washington about crew welfare. A replacement vessel is now on its way from the Pacific to relieve it — a move Washington hopes will undermine (破壞) any Iranian assumption that the deployment is unsustainable. James Gooderson, our reporter in Washington, says the carrier rotation is exposing the strain the war in Iran is placing on the US Navy's global posture, with the departure of a vessel from the Pacific leaving China with greater freedom to project power in the region. Vietnam Seizes Ivory Illegally Shipped from Africa Vietnamese authorities have seized a large shipment of ivory illegally shipped from Africa. The haul includes 221 pieces of elephant ivory weighing over 1,193 kilograms. It was displayed to the media on Wednesday in Gia Lai province. Vietnam is a major hub for the illicit wildlife trade, with much of the contraband transshipped (轉船 / 換船) to China. Inspections last week found the ivory hidden in sawn timber in a shipment from the Republic of the Congo. The illegal cargo also contained animal bones often used in traditional medicine. A criminal investigation has been launched. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9kbkbt -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 158-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,676 on turnover of 15.4-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Wednesday led by AI-related stocks, but turnover was limited as investors awaited the release of the latest U-S consumer price index data. Market watchers say the Tai-Ex managed to gain ground despite Wall Street declining overnight, as AI-related stocks listed on U-S indexes still moved higher, which sparked buying in their counterparts here in Taiwan. MOFA** seeks Indonesia clarification over China-announced joint naval exercise** The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it has asked Indonesia to clarify a joint naval exercise east of Taiwan announced by China. The statement comes after China's defense ministry announced that joint Chinese-Indonesian Naval navigation exercises would be taking place. According to the foreign ministry, it "immediately contacted relevant parties" to learn more about the situation and asked the Indonesian side for clarification (說明) after China "unilaterally claimed" Indonesia would participate in the drill. Jakarta has described its planned naval activities as "Passing Exercises" that are "not war-fighting in nature." Taoyuan to expand free milk program to junior high school students The Taoyuan City Government has announced plans to expand its free milk program. The move will include junior high school students beginning with the 2026 school year that commences on August 31. According to Taoyuan Mayor Simon Chang, the expansion of the program will benefit some 280,000 students aged between 2 and 15, from preschool through junior high school. The program was launched in February and provides one free milk or soy milk product per week to every preschool and elementary school student in Taoyuan. The city government has said the take-up rate (參與率) had reached about 70-per cent. UN: Taliban Detained Two Afghan Members of UN Political Mission The United Nations says Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers have detained two Afghan members of the U.N. political mission in the country. U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told U.N. reporters on Wednesday that the Taliban’s General Directorate of Intelligence detained the two staffers in the western city of Herat on Sunday. He said the U.N. mission has not been informed of the charges against the two men or been able to visit them. The Taliban seized power in 2021, as U.S. and NATO forces withdrew (轍) from the country after two decades of war. MEDIA GROUPS SUE TRUMP OVER TRUTH SOCIAL'S PAID API SERVICE, CALLING IT UNCONSTITUTIONAL Two media organisations have filed a federal lawsuit against US President Donald Trump and senior White House officials, challenging Truth Social's paid subscription service as unconstitutional. The service charges up to a hundred thousand dollars a month for early access to the president's posts — many of which serve as the sole channel for official government announcements. Nick Harper in Washington says the lawsuit could prompt the White House to further restrict (限制) press access. Ecuador Cocaine Shipment Seized Police in Ecuador have seized a cocaine shipment featuring soccer star Erling Haaland's face on the packaging. The bust occurred near the Colombian border, with 469 kilograms of cocaine found in a truck. The driver was arrested, but police didn't explain why Haaland's image was used. It's common for traffickers to label shipments with celebrity images to identify networks and clients. The operation followed an anonymous tip (匿名線索) on Tuesday. The shipment's value is estimated at over $11 million in the U.S. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opens higher The Tai-Ex opened up 54 points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,175, on turnover of 10.3-billion N.T. The market closed slightly higher on Tuesday after recovering from early losses, as investors bought selected electronic component stocks (電子零組件股) at lower prices. Market watchers say the early decline followed losses on Wall Street after crude oil prices (原油價格) rose sharply. However, investors soon began buying AI-related stocks. Strong demand for AI devices also helped the Tai-Ex move back into positive territory (上漲區間) by the end of trading. Coast Guard apologizes over illegal entry case Coast Guard Administration Director-General Chang Chung-lung (張忠龍) has apologized for failures in the handling of two Chinese nationals who illegally entered Taiwan by rubber boat (橡皮艇). A member of the public found the boat near Taipei Port. Chang says a radar operator failed to follow standard procedures (標準作業程序), while patrol officers did not fully search the coastline. He says the agency will not protect those responsible and will hold them accountable. The boat was found near Taipei Port's northern breakwater in New Taipei's Bali District on July 24. Coast Guard officers later identified the two suspects using footage from coastal monitoring systems (海岸監控系統). They were arrested in Taoyuan on July 30. Metro Sanying Line to extend operating hours The MRT Sanying Line will begin operating from 6 a.m. to midnight this Sunday. The newly opened line connects Dingpu Station on the Bannan Line with Yingge District. Passengers will continue to travel for free during the trial period (試營運期間). The metro operator (捷運營運單位) says the longer hours will give more people a chance to use the line. They will also allow staff to test its performance under normal operating conditions. The Sanying Line began trial operations on June 30. Since August 1, it has operated from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., with trains running every six to eight minutes. South Korea says North Korea launches ballistic missile South Korea says North Korea has launched a ballistic missile (彈道飛彈) toward the sea. It was North Korea's second missile test in less than a week. South Korea's military says it detected the launch from North Korea's east coast at around 6 a.m. The test may be a protest against upcoming South Korea-U.S. military exercises (軍事演習). North Korea considers the drills preparation for an invasion (入侵). The launch came two days after South Korea and the United States announced that their annual exercises would begin next week. The two countries say the drills are aimed at improving their ability to respond to threats from North Korea. Former US Marine released from Russian detention Former U.S. Marine Robert Gilman is returning to the United States after Russia released him from detention (拘留、羈押). U.S. President Donald Trump says he spoke with Gilman on Tuesday. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a pardon (特赦) on what officials called humanitarian grounds (人道考量). The decision followed negotiations over the weekend. U.S. officials say Washington did not agree to a prisoner exchange (換囚、交換囚犯) or make any concessions. Gilman had been held for more than four years following an incident on a train to Moscow. He is expected to arrive at Joint Base Andrews on Tuesday evening. Nick Harper reports from Washington. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. The Tai-Ex opened down 44-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,883 on turnover of 11.7-billion N-T. The market gained solid ground on Monday as buying was sparked by a rally on Wall Street last Friday after weaker-than-expected job data and eased concerns about a rate hike by the U-S Federal Reserve. MOFA** probes workplace bullying accusations against Geneva envoy** The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it has opened an investigation into allegations that President Lai Ching-te's top envoy in Geneva was involved in workplace bullying and other misconduct. According to the ministry, it formed a special task force, composed mainly of personnel from outside the ministry to conduct (執行) the investigation, after receiving a complaint against Greg Lee. The petition was from some of his subordinates (下屬) at the Taiwan representative office in Switzerland. The foreign ministry says the investigation is focusing on accusations of workplace bullying, while other complaints of misbehavior will be handled by the appropriate government agencies. Taiwan sees** population decline for 31st consecutive month** And, The Ministry of the Interior says data shows that Taiwan's population declined for a 31st consecutive month in July. According to the ministry, Taiwan’s population stood at 23,235,002 at the end of last month - which was a decline of 102,934 from the same period of last year. The number of newborns (新生兒) last month rose to 7,906, which was up by 582 from June. However, the total number of births during the first seven months of this year stood at 54,250 and that's a decline of15.7-per cent from the same period of last year. WHO Warning on Ebola Outbreak in Congo The World Health Organization says the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak started in February, months before it was officially declared in May. The WHO regional director says early cases were wrongly attributed to malaria and typhoid. Confirmed cases have reached 4,200, with over 1,900 deaths. The Bundibugyo virus responsible for this outbreak has no approved vaccines or treatments. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has warned that Ebola is spreading faster than efforts to fight it. Access to healthcare is challenged by years of conflict (衝突) in one of Congo’s most remote areas. US Trump Signs Order Spacing** Out Childhood Vaccines** US President Donald Trump wants changes in the way childhood vaccines are delivered. The AP's Jennifer King reports. UK France Brace for 5th Heatwave The U.K. and France are bracing for the fifth heat wave of the season, adding to an intense stretch of hot weather that has repeatedly sent temperatures soaring across Europe since May. France's national weather agency is warning about temperatures approaching 40 C from today onward in southeastern France. Across Europe, the extreme heat began in May and has contributed to (導致) major wildfires, prolonged (延長) drought and new national temperature records, as well as thousands of projected heat-related deaths. According to climate statistics, globally so fa, this is the third-hottest year, behind 2024 and 2025. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9gw8y9 －－－－以上為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ Tai-Ex opening upward Taiwan envoy to Japan protests Nagasaki memorial designation, skips event Lai inspects Taoyuan Avenger Air Defense System Netanyahu rejects Trump's Gaza peace roadmap Ancient Rome shipwreck found -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Lai boards coast guard vessel to observe coastal defense President Lai Ching-te boarded a Coast Guard Administration vessel in New Taipei's Bali District to observe coastal defense (海岸防禦) operations during the Han Kuang military exercise. According to the Presidential Office, Lai received briefings (簡報) on the patrol vessel's equipment and coastal strike operations. He also inspected its missile launcher system and learned about its configuration and operational readiness (作戰準備狀態). Thursday marked the second day of the Han Kuang exercise, with drills in the north focusing on coastal defense and other defensive operations. Typhoon Dolphin moves west Meteorologist Wu De Rong says Typhoon Dolphin appears to be moving further west even as it continues to weaken. The Central News Agency cites Wu as saying that while the system is expected to pass near the Ryukyu Islands today, uncertainty in its projected track (預測路徑) is increasing, making it less likely that the storm might miss Taiwan completely. Because of this, Wu is warning of intense rainfall in northern Taiwan and later in central and southern Taiwan tomorrow through the early morning of the 10th. While temperatures are expected to drop in parts of Taiwan, eastern Taiwan may experience extreme heat due to downslope warming (下坡增溫) caused by air descending over the mountains. Strong wind gusts are also expected across Taiwan, and residents are advised to take precautions. National Central University planning Arctic expedition Members of the National Central University's Polar Institute are taking part in what is Taiwan's first ever independently planned expedition (考察／探險) to the Arctic. According to the university, a 30-member team will be spending 12 days near Norway's Svalbard archipelago (群島), which is located midway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. The team includes scientists from Academia Sinica, the National Taiwan University and the National Academy of Marine Research. The university says although Taiwan is not an Arctic nation, changes in the Arctic could have long-term consequences for Taiwan. UKRAINE WARNS ALLIED AIR DEFENCE MISSILE SUPPLIES DOWN BY A THIRD AS ZELENSKY URGES URGENT ACTION AHEAD OF WINTER Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Ukraine has hit more oil facilities deep inside Russia. The attacks are part of Kyiv's effort to undermine (削弱) Moscow's wartime economy. Meanwhile, Russian drone and glide bomb attacks across Ukraine killed at least three civilians and wounded 22 others. Zelenskyy is urging his allies to supply interceptor missiles to bolster (加強／強化) Ukraine's air defenses. William Denselow reports from Brussels. That was William Denselow reporting. Iran reviews ban on US ships An Iranian parliamentary committee is ​reviewing a preliminary bill ‌that would bar (禁止) U.S., Israeli and ​other "hostile" vessels from ​transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The ban was reported by Iran's semi-official ​Fars news agency… and its citing a lawmaker. The draft bill would impose ​fines (處以罰款) of up ​to 20% of a ship's ‌cargo value for violations of the proposed restrictions. The lawmaker said ​the ​legislation was still under expert review ​and that ​parliament had invited specialists to submit recommendations before the ​draft is ​finalised. Canada climate change wildfires In North America, a new analysis (分析) found that climate change created conditions that led to Canada's Wildfires… even though the Trump administration thinks otherwise. Ed Donahue explains. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened down 123-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,487 on turnover of 14.2-billion N-T. The market returned to the 44,000-point level on Wednesday.  Strong gains in technology shares helped the index move back above its monthly and quarterly averages (季度平均線). MAC warns on China's new entry-exit rules  The Mainland Affairs Council says China's new entry-exit rules (出入境規定) could increase the risks for Taiwanese travelers visiting the country. The council says the rules include unclear national security measures and give authorities broad power to limit people's movement (限制人員行動). Speaking at a legislative hearing, council minister Chiu Chui-cheng said the rules put many of China's existing controls into law. He said these controls are already very strict for both Chinese citizens and foreigners. Chiu told lawmakers that the conditions for limiting people's movement remain unclear and too broad. He said this lack of clear legal standards (法律標準) is the main reason for concern. The new rules will take effect on September 15. EVA to launch Taipei-Delhi flights in December EVA Airways will launch nonstop flights (直飛航班) between Taipei and Delhi on December 1. Tickets are now available through the airline's website and travel agencies. EVA will operate five round trips (來回航班) a week using Airbus A330-300 aircraft. It will become the only Taiwan-based airline offering nonstop passenger flights to India. EVA Air President Clay Sun says the new route comes as Taiwan and India strengthen ties in manufacturing, semiconductors, artificial intelligence and other technology industries. These growing ties have increased demand for faster travel between the two countries. The airline says the service will also give Indian business travelers, students and researchers easier connections (轉機航班) through Taipei to North America. Myanmar leader visits Thailand in push for regional engagement Myanmar's military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, is visiting Thailand as Bangkok seeks to restart talks between Myanmar and ASEAN. Min Aung Hlaing is expected to meet Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul before attending a business forum (商業論壇) between the two countries. Thailand says its careful approach aims to keep communication open and encourage Myanmar to follow ASEAN's peace plan (和平計畫), which has made little progress (進展甚微). Myanmar's leaders have been banned from ASEAN summits since the military took power in 2021, leading to a civil war. Min Aung Hlaing became president in April after an army-backed (由軍方支持的) party won an election without any strong opposition. Flavio Bolsonaro names Alfredo Gaspar as running mate Brazilian presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro has chosen conservative lawmaker Alfredo Gaspar as his running mate (競選搭檔) in October's election. The decision surprised observers because Bolsonaro had considered choosing a woman to attract more voters. Gaspar represents the northeastern state of Alagoas and previously served as the state's public security secretary. He also led a congressional investigation into Brazil's social security agency. The investigation has raised questions involving one of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's sons. Lula's son denies any wrongdoing (不當行為). Indonesia drought boosts salt harvest but threatens crops A drought (乾旱) caused by El Niño is sharply increasing salt production in Indonesia. However, farmers are also preparing for stronger heat and crop losses. In West Java, salt production reached nearly 600 metric tons in July. That is much higher than the 25 to 30 tons produced during the same month last year. Most salt in Indonesia is made by allowing seawater to dry in shallow ponds (淺水池) near the coast. Long periods of sunshine help speed up this process. The national weather agency says the dry season is expected to reach its strongest point this month and could continue into early 2027. More than 5-thousand possible fire areas were found across Indonesia last month, raising concerns about wildfires. Salt producers expect a very large harvest.  Meanwhile, crop farmers are being advised to change their planting schedules and prepare for a long dry period. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened 449 points higher this morning from yesterday's close, at 43-thousand-809, on turnover of 25.5-billion N-T. The market closed almost unchanged (幾乎沒有變化) on Tuesday after moving by more than 1,000 points during the session. Early gains (早盤漲幅) were reduced by selling, as investors largely ignored an overnight rally (上漲行情) on Wall Street. Lai meets with Eswatini's visiting PM President Lai Ching-te has held talks with visiting Eswatini Prime Minister Russell Dlamini. During the meeting, Lai said the two countries are working together in industry, public health and digital development. He said his administration will continue to strengthen exchanges (加強交流) with Eswatini and help the country meet its development goals (發展目標). The cooperation includes energy projects, such as facilities for storing emergency oil supplies (緊急石油儲備). Lai also thanked Dlamini for Eswatini's support for Taiwan's participation in international organizations (國際組織) during the United Nations General Assembly. MOTC eyeing future of Taoyuan International Airport's Terminal 1  The Ministry of Transport is reportedly considering several options for the future of Terminal 1 at Taoyuan International Airport. The terminal has been in service for nearly 50 years. The ministry says an evaluation (評估) is now underway, but detailed plans will not be released until construction of Terminal 3 is completed at the end of next year. Possible options include demolishing (拆除) and rebuilding Terminal 1 or carrying out another major upgrade (進行升級改建). The Taoyuan International Airport Corporation is expected to submit its own proposal by the end of this year. The terminal was upgraded between 2010 and 2013, raising its annual passenger capacity (旅客運量) from 12 million to 15 million. Qatar reports progress in U.S.-Iran mediation Qatar says mediators (調停者) are making progress toward ending the U.S.-Iran war, although conflicting statements have raised doubts about a quick agreement. Qatar says it is working with Pakistan and Oman to exchange draft proposals (提案草案) between Washington and Tehran. U.S. President Donald Trump says direct talks have begun, but Iranian officials deny that negotiations with the United States are taking place. Iran says separate talks with Oman about safe shipping routes (航運路線) through the Strait of Hormuz are going well. Brent crude oil prices fell more than 5 percent on hopes that ships may soon be able to use the strait again. However, the important shipping route remains almost completely closed. Another cargo ship was hit near the strait, forcing the crew to leave the vessel. One crew member (船員) remains missing. North Korea warns of new military measures against Japan North Korea says it may take additional military action (額外軍事行動) in response to Japan's recent test launch (試射) of a Tomahawk cruise missile. Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, criticized the launch in a statement published by state media. Japan fired the long-range missile from the Aegis destroyer Chokai in the Pacific Ocean. Kim also mentioned Japan's tests of other missiles and its participation in a U.S.-led military exercise in the Philippines in May. She accused Japan of trying to become a major military power and said the United States was supporting those efforts. Kim said North Korea would prepare additional military options to respond to what it sees as a potential threat (潛在威脅), but she gave no details. SpaceX rocket debris set to strike moon A discarded (被丟棄的／廢棄的) piece of a SpaceX rocket is expected to crash into the moon at around 2:35 this afternoon Taiwan time. The four-metric-ton object is the second stage (火箭級段) of a Falcon 9 rocket launched in January 2025. It is expected to hit Einstein Crater at a speed of about 8-thousand-690 kilometers per hour. SpaceX says the crash was not planned. The rocket stage ran out of fuel and could no longer be controlled after completing its mission. The impact is expected to send lunar dust into the air, although it will be difficult to see from Earth without special equipment. Experts say the crash poses no danger, but it raises concerns about how space debris (太空垃圾) will be managed as more missions travel to the moon. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9fsm7z －－－－以上為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ KMT calls for accountability over delayed reporting in tainted oil case Domestic travel trips and spending hit record highs in 2025 EU calls for stronger borders Cuba's blackouts threaten people's lives Trump complains about energy companies making too much money -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9hecmh －－－－以上為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ Typhoon Dolphin's current situation Han Kuang highlights: US-type methods, new tanks, more reserves Chou Ling-wen elected as first female CTBA president Japan's Economy Minister pledges greater market transparency Brazil President Lula's bid for reelection -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 1,677-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 41,610 on turnover of $33.5-billion N-T. Taiwan shares closed below the 40,000-point threshold on Thursday after a volatile session that saw the benchmark index swing more than 1,700 points, erasing an intraday surge of over 1,100 points as late selling dragged the market lower. Analysts say the correction has been unusually steep, with the Taiex down more than 6,192 points so far this month and on track for its biggest monthly point decline on record. MOFA opens Kumamoto earthquake donation account The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has opened a dedicated bank account for cash donations as it works to establish a relief fund for people in Japan affected by Tuesday's magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture. The Mega Bank account will accept donations from the public from tomorrow through August 31. Presidential Office spokesperson Karen Kuo says President Lai Ching-te, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim and Premier Cho Jung-tai will each donate 200,000 N-T to the account. Kuo said Taiwan and Japan have supported each other during difficult times over the years and she's calling on the public to extend (給予，提供) their goodwill to earthquake-hit areas and help residents return to normal life as soon as possible. COSTA RICA'S GRYNSPAN LEADS FIRST UN SECURITY COUNCIL STRAW POLL IN RACE TO SUCCEED GUTERRES Costa Rica's Rebeca Grynspan has emerged as the frontrunner in the first informal straw poll (非正式投票) to choose the next United Nations Secretary-General, winning ten votes of encouragement from the fifteen members of the Security Council. Seven candidates — four women and three men — are vying to succeed António Guterres, whose second five-year term ends at the end of December. The Security Council did not officially release the results, and paper ballots were destroyed after counting. Mitch Mccann reports from New York. Liberia Burns Confiscated Concaine Liberian law enforcement agents have burned some 4.2 metric tons of cocaine worth about $336 million. The action comes after the country’s largest-ever drug seizure, which implicated senior police officials. Authorities say investigators identified officers who allegedly helped escort the cocaine. The police chief of highway patrol and the head of major crimes have been charged, while a deputy police commander is also a suspect. The Justice Ministry says the cocaine was recovered during a raid near the capital, Monrovia. Liberia's police and drug enforcement agency also burned cocaine seized in June. West Africa has become a key transit route (轉運路線) for cocaine trafficked from South America to Europe. Argentina Emergency Decree to Deny Entry or Expel Foreigners who Incite Violence Argentine President Javier Milei has signed an emergency decree allowing the government to deny entry to or expel foreigners who incite discrimination or violence against Argentines. This measure adds new grounds to Argentina’s immigration law, allowing authorities to revoke visas and deport those promoting hatred against Argentines. The move follows weeks of international backlash during and after the World Cup, when controversy over refereeing decisions, Argentina’s aggressive style of play and a post-match brawl broadened into criticism of the country itself. The decree does not apply to protected speech but leaves unclear how officials will distinguish prohibited hate speech. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened slightly higher this morning at 40,048 points, with turnover of 15.7-billion N.T. dollars. The market fell sharply (大幅下跌) again on Wednesday, losing more than 1,500 points. Investors remain worried about the large amount of money companies are spending on artificial intelligence (人工智慧). MOFA to protest 'Taiwan, China' name in South Africa's ETA system The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it will protest (抗議) South Africa's use of the name "Taiwan, China" in its Electronic Travel Authorization (旅行授權) system. Taiwanese travelers are not yet able to use the system. But reports say Taiwan appears in the website's passport menu under the incorrect (不正確的) name "Taiwan, China." The foreign ministry says Taiwan's representative office in Pretoria has been told to file a formal protest and ask South Africa to correct the name. Control Yuan refers former top trade negotiator, Yang Jen-ni to disciplinary court The Control Yuan has impeached (彈劾) former top trade negotiator Yang Jen-ni and sent her case to the Disciplinary Court. Yang was removed from her position last month after an investigation found that she repeatedly (一再地；反覆地) bullied her former deputy, Yen Huai-hsing. Yen resigned in February and died on March 12 at the age of 53. The Control Yuan says Yang seriously violated (違反) rules for public officials and should face a disciplinary review (懲戒審查). Yang denies any wrongdoing. TRUMP VOWS HEAVY STRIKES ON IRAN AFTER US INTERCEPTS BALLISTIC MISSILE ATTACK ON FORCES IN JORDAN U.S. President Donald Trump has promised heavy strikes on Iran after Iran's Revolutionary Guard fired several ballistic missiles (彈道飛彈) at U.S. military sites in Jordan on Tuesday. All of the missiles were intercepted (攔截). The attack ended a pause in the fighting. It came as U.S. and Saudi fighter jets carried out joint strikes on Iran-linked militia targets in Iraq. Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces says at least 20 people were killed. Iran says it does not want the conflict (衝突) to grow, but more countries are now becoming involved. Kate Fisher reports from Washington. Kenya elephants suspected to have been poisoned Wildlife officials in Kenya say 15 elephants may have been poisoned (中毒；被下毒) after eating tomatoes contaminated with cyanide (氰化物). The elephants died over the past month near Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya. Authorities have not said who may be responsible. In the past, some farmers have been suspected of poisoning elephants to protect their crops. The Kenya Wildlife Service says the contamination could also affect livestock (牲畜) in the area. Officials say the toxic substances (有毒物質) found in the elephants do not pose an immediate risk to people. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 112-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 41,491 on turnover of 13.6-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan posted the third largest single-session point decline Tuesday as tech stocks took a beating amid lingering concerns over massive spending on AI development that may not deliver comparable returns. Analysts say the index faced pressure soon after the market opened as investors witnessed losses posted by tech stocks in the United States overnight. And memory chip suppliers in South Korea also tumbled, triggering more of a sell-off among local semiconductor stocks. (CNA - NS) Taiwan Search and Rescue on Standby After Kumamoto Quake Taiwan’s elite search and rescue teams are on standby to deploy to Japan following a powerful earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture. President Lai Ching-te and Premier Cho Jung-tai has instructed emergency agencies to prepare for deployment (部署). The National Fire Agency says it has contacted the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association and Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency to express sympathy and offer support. And officials say Taiwan’s international humanitarian aid mechanism will officially activate as soon as Japan’s government formally requests emergency assistance through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (NS) Japan 13 Dead** After Kumamoto Quake** Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said 13 people have been found dead after a powerful quake shook part of southwestern Japan. The magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck the Kumamoto area on the southern main island of Kyushu late Tuesday afternoon. Takaichi says this morning that many other people were injured or still missing as rescue work continued overnight. Part of a shopping center collapsed, apparently due to a gas leak, and a huge chimney at a paper factory collapsed (倒塌). The Fire and Disaster Management Agency said more than 260,000 people were advised to evacuate, most of them in Kumamoto prefecture, but also in the neighboring Nagasaki prefecture. IRAN VOWS 'ANY ACTION' TO KEEP CONTROL OF STRAIT OF HORMUZ AS TRUMP AND NETANYAHU DISCUSS TEHRAN'S NUCLEAR PROGRAMME Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has said on Tuesday that Tehran will take any action to keep control of the Strait of Hormuz, rejecting an Omani proposal to divide shipping routes and refusing to negotiate (談判) with Washington. The declaration came as US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu concluded White House talks the two described as excellent — with both leaders reaffirming what the White House called an ironclad commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Attention has now turned to whether Washington has given Israel permission to strike Iranian energy infrastructure — something Israel's defence minister says the United States has so far blocked. Mitch Mccann has more from New York. Kashmir Pakistani Officials Accuse Outlawed Political Group of Sabotage Officials in Pakistan administered Kashmir are accusing an outlawed political group of trying to sabotage elections for the region’s constitutional assembly. They also allege that Pakistani Taliban militants have infiltrated ongoing protests. The accusations follow clashes on Monday that left one paramilitary officer dead and several others wounded. Armed protesters reportedly opened fire on police and security personnel during a sit-in. The protests have overshadowed (給……蒙上陰影) the election, which began Monday and runs through Aug. 10-th. Authorities claim the Joint Awami Action Committee is behind the unrest and warn that armed militants pose a threat to public order. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 412-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 43,221 on turnover of 13.4-billion N-T. The market ended marginally lower on Monday, as large-cap tech stocks rebounded from early losses, while rotational buying in the financial sector helped limit the downturn. FDA** releases findings on Central Union cooking oil contamination** The Food and Drug Administration has released the findings of an independent investigation into the cause of carcinogen contamination in seven batches of cooking oil produced by Central Union Oil Corporation. Minister Without Portfolio Chen Shih-chung says the contamination began with a shipment of Brazilian soybeans. The investigation was conducted by an expert panel convened by the Food Industry Research and Development Institute. According to Chen, it identified three main problems - those being that high-risk raw materials were not properly managed, production irregularities were not adequately addressed and the company's food safety risk management was insufficient (不足的). The Cabinet last week approved draft amendments to the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation and sent them to the Legislature for review. MODA warns of increasing number of ransomware threats The Ministry of Digital Affairs is warned the number of ransomware attacks targeting local businesses is increasing, as hackers are turning to generative A-I. According to the ministry's Administration for Cyber Security, ransomware is one of the biggest cybersecurity risks facing companies and businesses need to take steps to strengthen protection. Administration director-general Tsai Fu-lung says businesses need to take four steps to ensure their data is secure - those being making regular backups and software updates, ensuring the use of strong passwords, and issuing warnings to employees about suspicious (可疑的) links. Tsai says ransomware attacks this year have targeted local companies in the paper manufacturing, biotech, and semiconductor sectors. MACRON VISITS GIRONDE AS FRENCH WILDFIRE AUTHORITIES WARN BLAZE COULD BURN FOR MONTHS French President Emmanuel Macron is travelling to the Gironde region of southwestern France, to meet emergency workers battling wildfires. The fires have burned more than 42-thousand hectares and forced some 220-thousand people from their homes. The Gironde prefecture said the situation (情況) overnight was "globally stable" — a change from previous days — but fire authorities have warned the blaze could take months to fully extinguish. Will Denselow reports from Mios, one of several towns near Bordeaux, where evacuation orders were issued on Sunday. Canada US Consulate Shooting A shooter fired at the U.S. Consulate in Toronto early Monday morning, marking the second such incident this year. Police reported no injuries but found a single shell casing and damage to the building's facade. A high-speed chase followed, but no arrests were made. The U.S. Consulate was also targeted March 10, when two suspects allegedly fired multiple shots at the building before driving away in a stolen vehicle. Two were arrested and charged wtih multiple offences. Authorities are investigating possible links to gun-for-hire networks, which have also targeted (有針對性的) synagogues and Jewish-owned bakeries in the city. Subject: C*OUTRO Return to Table of contents That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 68-points this morning from Friday's close, at 43,585 on turnover of 8.6-billion N-T. The market took a beating on Friday, plunging over 1,000 points as a spike in crude oil prices due to escalating military conflicts in the Middle East and lingering concerns over a possible AI bubble spooked investor sentiment. 6,000 more doses of COVID-19 vaccine now available in Taipei The Centers for Disease Control says 6,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines will be delivered to the Taipei City Department of Health this week and will be distributed to contracted (承包的) medical institutions and outpatient hospital clinics. The statement comes amid claims that clinics in Taipei were reportedly out of COVID-19 vaccine doses. Concern over a lack of vaccine doses comes after the C-D-C last week announced the extension of its publicly funded COVID-19 vaccination program through September 28 due to a rise in the number of cases. According to the C-D-C, Taiwan entered a new COVID-19 epidemic phase two weeks ago, as outpatient and emergency room visits rose by 66.5-per cent in the week of July 12 to 18 from the previous week. The publicly funded vaccination had been scheduled to end July 31. Miaoli Mazu** temple becomes Taiwan's 1st to retire carbon credits** The Baishatun Gongtian Temple in Miaoli County has become the first in Taiwan to offer visitors the option of offsetting their carbon emissions through the retirement of Gold Standard carbon credits. According to the Tourism Innovation Association of Taiwan, data shows the average visitor to the temple generated about 0.04 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent. Under the new scheme, government agencies, businesses, schools, organizations and religious groups visiting the temple for worship, company outings, or cultural tours can apply to retire carbon credits based on the number of participants. The association is also partnering with the Miaoli County government's Culture and Tourism Bureau to develop travel itineraries centered on Gongtian Temple that have also obtained carbon credit retirement certification. US Seattle Shooting Multiple Dead In the US… Multiple people were injured in a shooting Sunday night at an events complex (大型展演場館) close to the Space Needle in Seattle, police said in a statement. Authorities did not immediately release more information. US AND IRAN HOLD FIRE FOR SECOND DAY AS OMAN BROKERS TALKS ON STRAIT OF HORMUZ SHIPPING ROUTES The United States and Iran have held their fire for a second consecutive day, as negotiators work to revive an interim (暫時的) ceasefire deal to end the war. US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz has said US President Donald Trump is giving the talks room, while a senior Iranian source has told Reuters that Tehran will maintain the pause as long as Washington does. An Omani delegation is now in Tehran to discuss the management of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — the issue at the heart of the conflict. Jagruti Dave reports from Washington. Brazil Recalls Ambassador to Argentina After Milei Insult Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it has recalled its ambassador to Argentina after President Javier Milei insulted Brazilian officials while in their country. The decision comes a day after Milei was in Sao Paulo participating in an event where Brazilian Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro, a son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, was confirmed as the presidential candidate of his father’s party. During his speech at Saturday’s event, Milei accused Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of being a “thief” and a “delinquent” (違法者) among other things. Lula is seeking reelection and will run against Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro, whose family has many ties with the Trump administration. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opens lower The Taiwan Stock Exchange opened 81 points lower this morning. Opening turnover reached 6.77 billion N-T dollars. Taiwan shares followed other Asian markets lower as oil prices rose above 100 U-S dollars a barrel amid growing conflict (衝突) in the Gulf. U-S stocks also fell overnight as higher oil prices worried investors. The S&P 500 lost 1.2 percent, the Dow fell 1 percent, and the Nasdaq dropped 2.2 percent. Traffic controls possible as Noul approaches The Directorate General of Highways says traffic controls (交通管制) may be introduced on five highway sections. These include the Southern Cross-Island Highway and the East Coast Highway. The announcement comes after the Central Weather Administration issued a sea warning for Tropical Storm Noul. Noul is the 12th tropical storm of this year's season. The highways agency also activated its emergency response team (緊急應變小組) at 7 this morning. Officials said mountain roads could become blocked (受阻的、無法通行的) or damaged during the storm. Traffic controls will be changed based on the latest weather reports and road conditions. MAC to cancel citizenship of China-born organizer The Mainland Affairs Council says it will cancel the Taiwan citizenship (公民身分、國籍) of a China-born woman convicted (被判有罪的) of working for Beijing in Taiwan. Zhou Man-zhi became a Taiwan citizen through marriage in 2004. Earlier this week, the Supreme Court confirmed her eight-year prison sentence (監禁刑期) for breaking the National Security Act. The court found that Zhou tried to develop two groups for marriage immigrants in Taiwan. It said she acted for China-based organizations controlled by the Chinese Communist Party. Trump links Saudi nuclear deal to Israel ties U-S President Donald Trump says a civilian nuclear cooperation agreement (合作協議) with Saudi Arabia can only move forward if the kingdom establishes relations (建立關係) with Israel. Saudi Arabia has long refused to join the agreements without a clear path toward an independent (獨立) Palestinian state. Sagher Meghani reports. Human Rights Watch criticizes Indian police Human Rights Watch is calling on India's government to investigate police actions against student protesters in New Delhi. The group says security forces used unnecessary and excessive force (過度武力), including tear gas (催淚瓦斯) and batons, against mostly peaceful protesters. The criticism comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has offered to hold talks with protest leaders. The protesters are demanding that the country's education minister resign (辭職). India is now ranked as the country with the highest risk of civil unrest (社會動盪) on a major international index. The number of people joining protests has more than doubled over the past year. Neha Poonia reports from New Delhi. Diplomats consider removing ICC prosecutor Diplomats are preparing to vote on whether to remove the chief prosecutor (首席檢察官) of the International Criminal Court. The vote follows findings of sexual misconduct (性行為不當). The prosecutor is also banned from entering the U-S and is under U-S sanctions. The sanctions (制裁) are linked to the court's investigation of Israeli officials over the conflict in Gaza. Molly Quell has the latest. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened 73 points higher this morning at 44,899. Turnover reached 7.3 billion N-T dollars. The market bounced back on Wednesday, led by chip and technology shares. The gains came after the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index rose 5.21 percent overnight, as major chipmakers (晶片製造商) and other A-I-related companies gained in the U-S. Foreign minister repeats South China Sea position Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung has repeated Taiwan's claims in the South China Sea. However, he said the Lai administration is not actively pushing those claims. His comments come as tensions continue between China and the Philippines in the disputed waters (爭議海域). Speaking at a legislative hearing on the government's South China Sea policy, Lin said Taiwan's claims over islands in the area have not changed. He said Taiwan's position is based on four principles (原則). These include solving disputes peacefully under international law, including Taiwan in international talks, protecting freedom of navigation (航行自由) and air travel, and sharing regional resources. Possible tropical storm could affect Taiwan this weekend The Central Weather Administration says a tropical depression (熱帶性低氣壓) east of the Philippines could become a tropical storm as early as today. The weather system could reach waters near Taiwan this weekend. A sea warning (海上警報) may be issued as it moves through the Bashi Channel and into the South China Sea. The tropical depression is about 1,400 kilometers east-southeast of Eluanbi, Taiwan's southernmost point. It is moving northwest at 27 kilometers per hour. If it becomes a tropical storm, it will be named Noul. It would be the 12th named storm of this year's Pacific typhoon season. US signs agreement with Saudi Arabia on uranium enrichment  The U-S has signed an agreement with Saudi Arabia on the kingdom's civilian (民用的) nuclear energy program. The deal could allow Saudi Arabia to develop the ability to enrich uranium (濃縮鈾). The Trump administration has released few details about the agreement. However, it could lead to the construction of a uranium enrichment center after a joint U-S-Saudi study. The U-S Department of Energy says the peaceful nuclear agreement will also give American companies greater access to Saudi Arabia's nuclear energy program. Major wildfire burns in central Spain Firefighters in central Spain are battling a major wildfire (野火、森林大火) in Guadalajara. The fire has burned more than 32,000 hectares (公頃) of land. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez visited the area on Wednesday and called for political parties to work together against climate change. He said climate change is a scientific issue, not a political one. The Guadalajara fire is one of the largest in Spain's history. It comes less than two weeks after another fire in southern Spain killed 13 people. A heat wave is making firefighting more difficult, with temperatures reaching 42 degrees. Other European countries are also facing extreme heat and wildfires. Police station opens at Hitler's birthplace in Austria Austria has opened a police station in the house where Adolf Hitler was born. The Nazi leader was born in the former inn (以前的旅館) in April 1889. For years, Austrian officials debated what to do with the 17th-century building. They wanted to stop it from becoming a place where neo-Nazis would gather. The building has now been refurbished (翻修), and its outside appearance has been changed. The government first announced plans to turn it into a police station in 2019. Police musicians performed at the opening ceremony. Louvre reopens Apollo Gallery after jewel theft The Louvre Museum in Paris has reopened its Apollo Gallery. The gallery (展廳、畫廊) had been closed after crown jewels (王室珠寶) worth more than 100 million U-S dollars were stolen during a daytime robbery last October. The AP's Alex Turnbull reports. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. PLA helicopter crosses Taiwan Strait median line The Ministry of National Defense says a Chinese military helicopter was detected crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait median line on Monday. Officials say the helicopter and a drone were detected between 10:20AM and 7:40PM on Monday. Chieh Chung, a researcher at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, says he believes it is the first time a Chinese military helicopter has been detected crossing the median line. Chieh says that represents a new form of "gray-zone" operation. Defense officials have not said whether the detected helicopter was a shipborne aircraft (艦載機) or had been dispatched from a nearby Army aviation base along China's coast. Taiwan enters new COVID-19 epidemic phase: CDC Taiwan has officially entered a new COVID-19 epidemic phase after more than 47 hundred people sought treatment for the disease during July 12-18. The Centers for Disease Control says that figure marks a 66.5 percent increase from the previous week. Officials say Taiwan has sufficient supplies of antiviral medications and vaccines to respond to the outbreak. She said the NB.1.8.1 variant has remained the dominant strain in Taiwan for the past four weeks. The most common symptoms include sore throat, cough, nasal congestion (鼻塞) or a runny nose, fever, fatigue, headache and muscle aches. COVID-19 activity is also increasing in China, Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea, Tseng said. Taipei retains** 14th place in global student city rankings** Taipei ranked 14th in the U.K.-based Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Best Student Cities 2027 rankings. The rankings were based on indicators including university rankings, desirability, affordability, student mix and employer activity. QS noted that Taiwan's ranked cities performed particularly well for affordability (可負擔性), with all placing among the world's top 30. But Taiwan's cities lagged in employer activity, which measures how strongly employers associate a city with producing high-quality graduates. Globally, Seoul topped the 2027 rankings, followed by Tokyo, London and Melbourne. Munich and Sydney tied for fifth, ahead of Paris, Berlin, Vienna and Zurich. US STRIKES IRAN FOR TENTH CONSECUTIVE DAY A 10th straight day of attacks between the United States and Iran across the Middle East has overshadowed (使蒙上陰影) diplomatic efforts in Pakistan to salvage an interim ceasefire deal that collapsed earlier this month. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says the Iran war has cost $37.5 billion, so far. It is now unclear what new arrangement might be reached to end the war… which has turned into a battle for control over the Strait of Hormuz… Ed Donahue reports on the mood from the White House. France social media ban French lawmakers have approved a bill banning children under 15 from using social media. The move makes France the first country in the European Union to pass a blanket ban (全面禁令) on platforms as concerns grow worldwide over the harmful effects of digital content on kids. Both chambers of the Parliament voted Tuesday in favor of the measure, a flagship initiative of French President Emmanuel Macron’s second term. The bill also bans the use of mobile phones in high schools. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 117-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 42,566 on turnover of 3.9-billion N-T. The market extended is losses on Monday from a session earlier amid fears over further volatility after a recent strong showing. Analysts say investors continued to cut their holdings in semiconductor stocks, reversing an initial upturn after the tech-heavy Seoul market continued to move lower … …. but Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing appeared resilient on bargain hunting to lend some support to the broader market. Former-TSMC manager indicted over alleged bid to leak secrets to China The Intellectual Property Prosecutors' Office has indicted a former Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing executive for allegedly attempting to leak the chipmaker's core technologies to China. According to prosecutors, the former deputy manager has been charged with violating (違反) the National Security Act and the Trade Secrets Act. Prosecutors have requested a seven-year prison sentence - arguing that the former T-S-M-C employees actions threatened Taiwan's technological advantage. The executive made unauthorized copies of classified and general trade-secret documents belonging to T-S-M-C and took them home with the intention of using them in China. Prosecutors say T-S-M-C detected the irregularities through an internal investigation and recovered all of the copied documents before any technology was transferred. New elevated walkway opens at Minquan Bridge in Taipei An elevated pedestrian walkway connected to (連接到) the Minquan Bridge in Taipei has opened. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an said it's part of a broader renovation project designed to bolster the bridge's resistance to earthquakes and floods while also improving the area's recreational facilities and pedestrian-friendly urban environment. Construction of the walkway began in August of last year and was completed on May 28. The walkway features a lightweight steel structure and circular viewing platforms overlooking the Keelung River. Houthis Announce Maritime Embargo Against Saudi Arabia Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have announced a maritime embargo (禁運) against Saudi Arabia. Monday's decision comes in retaliation for a blockade on Yemen and a recent attack on Sanaa International Airport. The embargo affects the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a crucial waterway for global trade and gateway to the Red Sea as Saudi Arabia seeks an alternative to the Iran-gripped Strait of Hormuz. The blockade raises fears of renewed conflict in the region. Saudi Arabia has not responded. This comes as the British military said a tanker came under attack early Tuesday in the Strait of Hormuz off Oman, the latest assault to target shipping in the strategic waterway. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center said the ship reported over the radio it had been hit by an unknown projectile. Two other ships were attacked in the strait over the last day, with Iran’ paramilitary Revolutionary Guard claiming those assaults. Ex-Mexican drug lord Ismael ‘El** Mayo’ Zambada denounces violence as he's **sentenced to life in prison A former drug kingpin is sentenced to life in prison. AP correspondent Jennifer King reports. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 121-points this morning from Friday's close, at 42,793 on turnover of 15.5-billion N-T. The market saw its biggest single-day drop on record last Friday -- tumbling just over 2,950-points -- as a sell-off in artificial intelligence-related shares dragged Wall Street lower and weighed on global equities. President Lai honors F-16V pilot who died in January training accident President Lai Ching-te has presented a posthumous presidential citation (追授獎項) honoring Air Force pilot Hsin Po-yi. Hsin died after his F-16V fighter jet crashed during a nighttime training mission off of Hualien in January. Hsin's father, Hsin Chin-yu, accepted the citation from Lai at a ceremony. Hsin served with the Air Force's Hualien-based 5th Tactical Composite Wing and was posthumously promoted from captain to major and awarded the Order of Loyalty and Valor. Hsin's F-16V fighter jet disappeared from radar on the evening of January 6 on a routine raining mission shortly after he reported becoming separated from the lead aircraft while flying through clouds. The aircraft's flight data recorder was recovered in March. Taiwan's students shine at international Biology, Chemistry Olympiads Taiwan students have ranked first and third, respectively, in gold medal tallies, at the International Biology Olympiad and the International Chemistry Olympiad. The students won four gold medals at the Biology Olympiad and three golds and one silver at the Chemistry Olympiad. Both events took place in Vilnius, Lithuania, According to the Ministry of Education, Taiwan sent students from the Taipei Municipal Chien Kuo High School, the Taipei First Girls High School the Taichung Municipal Taichung First Senior High School to the event. Taiwan's four-gold haul topped the medal table among 78 participating countries and 302 contestants. US STRIKES ABADAN AS WASHINGTON FACES QUESTIONS OVER MILITARY READINESS FOR WIDER IRAN CONFLICT The United States struck targets on the outskirts of the Iranian city of Abadan on Sunday evening, extending what has now been more than a week of consecutive American strikes against Iran. The latest attack came as the White House faces accusations (指控) of sending mixed signals on its strategy — having reimposed sanctions on Iranian oil exports after initially lifting them under a memorandum of understanding that now appears to have collapsed. Kate Fisher reports from Washington. Nigeria UNICEF Warns of Child Malnutrition Health workers in northern Nigeria say more children are relapsing into malnutrition and cite knock-on effects from the war in the Middle East. The region is already under pressure from an insurgency crisis. The conflict in the Middle East has worsened food security for millions, especially children. UNICEF warns that if the war continues, millions more children could fall into poverty. The war has also affected fertilizer supplies and prices, threatening the planting season and worsening the fate (命運) of mostly farming communities in northern Nigeria. Hungary President Signs to End his Term Hungary's president has signed a constitutional amendment ending his term, resolving a dispute with the new government. Prime Minister Péter Magyar, who defeated Viktor Orbán in April, had urged Tamás Sulyok to resign, accusing him of failing to oppose Orbán's antidemocratic actions. When Sulyok refused, Magyar's party passed an amendment for his immediate removal. Sulyok signed it on the final day before the deadline. His term officially ends today. Magyar's government has been dismantling (拆解) Orbán's influence by removing appointees and making judicial reforms. It also plans to nominate a new president soon. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9erfpz -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 391-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,234 on turnover of $17.4-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed little changed Thursday after contract chipmaker TSMC rebounded from the day's low amid continued enthusiasm (熱情) over artificial intelligence (AI), helping the broader market recover most of its earlier losses, dealers said. Taiwan's freedom, prosperity indicies rise in annual report Taiwan's freedom and prosperity (繁榮) indicies have risen in an annual international report. Taiwan ranked 21st in the freedom index and 19th in the prosperity index out of 171 countries surveyed. Both those indices mark improvements from last year. But around the world, political freedom and the rule of the law declined overall, while prosperity growth slowed. The only country to beat out Taiwan for freedom was Japan at number 14… but Singapore was the only one to beat Taiwan for prosperity. The indices from the Atlantic Council were established in 2022 and have been published annually since. (AH-CNA) Qatar Warns Public amid Iranian Missiles Qatar is warning the public to take shelter as a barrage of Iranian missiles targets the nation. People heard explosions overhead early today as air defenses fired to intercept the missiles. Iran earlier targeted Bahrain and Kuwait over U.S. airstrikes hitting bridges in the Islamic Republic overnight. Qatar is a key mediator with Pakistan in trying to reach an end to the Iran war. This comes as the United States intensified its strikes on Iran, hitting targets farther north. American forces also fired into a ship they accused of trying to break a U.S. naval blockade (封鎖) on the Islamic Republic. Iran retaliated Thursday with missile and drone fire targeting U.S. allies Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait. The interim ceasefire agreed to last month has collapsed and the region has endured days of back-and-forth attacks by the U.S. and Iran as they battle for control of the Strait of Hormuz. CANADIAN WILDFIRE SMOKE** CHOKES 17 US STATES AS DETROIT'S AIR QUALITY INDEX** HITS DOUBLE THE HAZARDOUS THRESHOLD Canadian wildfire smoke has worsened sharply across the United States on Thursday Air quality alerts now covering at least 17 states and some 115 million people. The densest plumes are pushing south from the Midwest toward Washington and New York, with forecasters warning conditions in the capital could deteriorate (惡化) by Friday. Jagruti Dave reports from Washington. Japan to Pass Law Insisting on MaleOnly Imperial Heir A law set to pass Friday by Japan’s parliament could doom its 1,500-year-old hereditary institution by insisting that only men can be emperor, sparking worry about the shrinking, fast-aging imperial family. The revisions include adoption of distant male relatives to father future heirs and allowing princesses to keep their royal status after marrying commoners. Emperor Naruhito’s 24-year-old daughter is hugely popular, and many Japanese want her to be his successor. Princess Aiko is ineligible because she is a woman. Japan’s male-only succession rule means the emperor’s teenage nephew and second in line, Prince Hisahito, will probably be the heir. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9f5mf3 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 120-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,512 on turnover of $9.1 billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan bounced back Wednesday from a slump a session earlier, with buying sparked by a rally in the United States overnight after slower-than-expected June inflation. Contract chipmaker TSMC gained only 0.83 percent. Its consolidation capped the Taiex's upturn and limited turnover. Nontech stocks also attracted buying in line with the broader market. Petrochemical stocks continued to move higher, led by the four major entities of the conglomerate Formosa Plastics Corp. National Forest pet bans extended to 2028' The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency has announced that it will continue prohibiting visitors from bringing cats, dogs, and other mammals into 19 forest recreation areas. That's in an effort to prevent the spread of rabies. The government says that it's extending (延長) the ban beyond its original expiration date at the end of the month, citing a lack of reduction in the geographic range where rabies has been detected in wildlife. The restriction covering 19 national forest areas will be extended for 2 years, through July 2028. The agency first imposed the ban in August 2013 after several ferret-badgers tested positive for rabies and has extended the measure several times since then.' But some pets will be allowed under certain conditions at Neidong, Chihnan, and Jhihben, as well as three plains-level forest parks. US Ends Overnight Iran Strikes The US military says it has ended a wave of overnight airstrikes that rattled (使慌亂、使緊張) parts of northern Iran for the first time. Iranian state media reported explosions around Iran’s capital, Tehran, for the first time of the latest attacks over control of the Strait of Hormuz. It also reported American attacks targeted Iran’s Semnan province, home to ballistic missile production and its space program. There was no immediate word on casualties or damage from the attacks. US FACES STATUTORY DE**ADLINE TO IMPOSE 25 PERCENT TARIFF ON THOUSANDS OF **BRAZILIAN GOODS The United States Trade Representative faces a statutory deadline on Wednesday to finalise, modify or abandon a proposed twenty-five per cent tariff on thousands of Brazilian goods, after months of negotiations that officials in Brasília have described as largely unproductive (沒有成效的). The tariff, imposed under Section 301 of US trade law, would target more than four thousand products worth some fifteen billion dollars a year, though key Brazilian exports including beef, coffee and aircraft parts are expected to be exempt. Brazil's government says it is bracing for the tariff to land, but has not ruled out a last-minute diplomatic push. Nick Harper reports from Washington. UK Gov Announces Social Media** Curfew Plans** The British government has announced plans for a six-hour social media curfew from midnight for 16- and 17-year-olds. They can override this default setting. On Wednesday, the Labour government also said features like autoplay videos will be switched off by default (預設) for older teenagers. This follows a recent social media ban for under-16s. The UK's online safety minister says a pilot program showed reduced social media usage and improved sleep. Critics argue the curfew may not be effective, and a leading children's charity has called for stronger measures to address addictive design features. The measures, which are one of the final acts of the government of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, will have to be legislated upon. It is widely believed that his expected successor Andy Burnham will follow through with the plans. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9erfq5 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 113-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,851 on turnover of $9.9-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan came under pressure Tuesday, falling below 44,000 points at one point, before rebounding in the last 90 minutes of the session to cap the losses. But while most non-tech stocks were also in the doldrums, the petrochemical sector outperformed the market on a spike in international crude oil prices amid renewed unease in the Middle East, which could boost product prices. Heat and Afternoon Thunderstorms Over Next Few Days Forecasters are warning of intense heat and severe afternoon thunderstorms across Taiwan over the next several days. The Central Weather Administration today issued high-temperature alerts for eight counties and cities. Officials say Changhua, Yunlin, Tainan, and Hualien are under an orange alert… meaning temperatures could repeatedly exceed (超過) 36 degrees Celsius. Taipei, New Taipei, Chiayi, and Taitung are under a yellow alert. Taitung also faces a high risk of hot, dry foehn winds. Meteorologist Wu Der-rong says tropical disturbances in the South China Sea and near the Philippines are bringing large amounts of moisture toward Taiwan, creating highly unstable conditions. Wu warns that severe convective thunderstorms will develop in mountainous areas every afternoon through July 21st, and te storms will likely trigger lightning, strong winds, and flash flooding in low-lying areas. (NS) China Senior CCP Member Expelled Chinese state media says a senior official has been expelled from the ruling Communist Party. Ma Xingrui is one of three members of the current Politburo purged in leader Xi Jinping's anti-corruption campaign, alongside two military generals. Analysts see the campaign as a tool to enforce loyalty to Xi and root out (根除) corruption. Party authorities concluded that Ma committed violations including accepting gifts and using his position to help others. The 66-year-old Ma was previously the Communist Party chief of Xinjiang and governor of Guangdong province. Gold trader gets time served in Iran sanctions case that strained US-Turkey relations A Turkish businessman charged in a conspiracy to help Iran evade (逃避) sanctions gets no additional prison time after helping U.S. investigators. The AP's Jennifer King reports. Spain Gibraltar Border Fence** Dismantled** The fence separating Gibraltar from Spain has been dismantled, easing travel for thousands who cross daily. This change, which goes into effect today, follows years of post-Brexit negotiations between the European Union and the United Kingdom over Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory that is also claimed by Spain. On Tuesday, the U.K. and the E.U. signed an agreement securing Gibraltar’s economic future. The deal de facto brings Gibraltar into the EU’s Schengen free travel area. Gibraltar officials say live facial recognition (臉部辨識) cameras are now set up at entry points. When Britain left the EU in 2020, the relationship between Gibraltar and the bloc had been left unresolved. In 2025, the EU and U.K. announced an agreement on those issues, with the two sides and Gibraltar’s government signing a treaty Tuesday that eases border crossings. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 16-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,364 on turnover of $8.7-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed little changed Monday with an initial significant upturn eroded as investors rushed to lock in earlier gains in the wake of losses on other regional markets. But analysts say TSMC appeared resilient and posted gains to lend support to the broader market, with investors also expecting the company to deliver positive leads from its Thursday investor conference. New partnership to boost protection of Penghu marine park The Marine National Park Headquarters has signed a cooperation agreement with TIPC Marine Corporation to strengthen maritime patrols in the waters of South Penghu Marine National Park. Returning port service vessels will carry park personnel (人員) on patrol missions during their return voyages, increasing surveillance of protected waters. The partnership will also establish a system for sharing vessel tracking data, images and patrol records to help detect suspected illegal fishing, coral reef damage and other violations. Officials say the partnership will expand patrol coverage and create a stronger marine patrol network, helping better protect the national park's marine ecosystem. The two sides also plan to work together on marine conservation education and public awareness programs. (IG) UAE: Iran Attacks Tankers Leaving One Dead The United Arab Emirates says Iran attacked two tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, killing one mariner and wounding eight others. The Emirati Defense Ministry said Iran launched two cruise missiles at the tankers Mombasa and Al Bahiyah. The attacks set both tankers ablaze, though the fires were extinguished (撲滅). Bahrain also came under renewed attack early Tuesday morning as Iran retaliated over the latest round of U.S. airstrikes. Bahrain sounded its missile alert siren, urging the public to seek shelter. There was no word on any damage or casualties from the attack. US Minnesota prosecutors obtain long withheld evidence in investigation into protest shooting deaths From the US… Minnesota prosecutors have obtain (獲得) long withheld evidence in the state investigation of ICE related shootings in Minnesota. AP correspondent Ed Donahue reports Spain PM Faces Backlash for** France World Cup Team Comments** Former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy is facing backlash for comments about France's World Cup team ahead of their semifinal match. He claimed the team "does not have any French players," which leaders in France and Spain have called racist. Rajoy made the remarks in a column for a Spanish outlet. France's foreign minister and the president of the French soccer federation condemned (譴責) the comments, calling them racist. Spain's ruling Socialist government and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez swiftly condemned the comments. It's not the first time France's team has faced racism during this year's World Cup. Earlier this month, France captain and star player Kylian Mbappé condemned a Paraguayan senator over remarks she made following Paraguay’s loss to France in the round of 16. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9erfq4 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 146-points this morning from Thursday's close, at 45,500 on turnover of $14.8-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed lower Thursday after an earlier upturn was reversed when market sentiment became spooked by renewed geopolitical concerns as the United States and Iran launched fresh attacks. Selling focused on select large-cap liquid tech stocks as contract chipmaker TSMC faced heavier pressure, pushing down the Taiex. 86 Indonesian students awarded Taiwan scholarships Eighty-six Indonesian students have been awarded Taiwanese government scholarships to study in Taiwan this year. Before leaving, they attended a pre-departure orientation in Jakarta held by Taiwan’s representative office there, covering student visas, residency procedures and campus life. Taiwan's representative to Indonesia, Bruce Hung, said more than 19 thousand Indonesian students are currently studying in Taiwan, making Indonesia the second-largest source of international students after Vietnam. Hung said Taiwan offers a strong Mandarin-learning environment and diverse (多種多樣的) higher education opportunities, and encouraged the students to learn more about the island's AI and semiconductor industries during their studies. Thailand Pub Fire Leaves Dozens Dead and Injured A huge fire that engulfed a pub in Bangkok overnight has killed at least 27 people and injured dozens more. Rescuers said the fire was reported around midnight Sunday, and firefighters brought the blaze under control early Monday. Footage shared online by first responders shows a huge blaze raging and plumes coming out of the front door of the pub in the northern part of the Thai capital. Thailand's prime minister told reporters at the scene that several people have been taken to the hospital. He says a musician who was performing at the pub told him that he saw smoke coming out of a circuit breaker (斷路器) near the stage before the power went out, then an explosion was heard and thick smoke quickly filled the venue Many of victims were found at the restrooms at the back of the pub. US Launches Strikes on Iranian Military Sites The United States Central Command has launched fresh strikes on Iranian military sites near the Strait of Hormuz, as Washington presses Tehran to guarantee safe passage for commercial shipping through the waterway. The escalation comes as the US political landscape shifts following the death of Senator Lindsey Graham, a prominent (著名的) foreign policy hawk who advocated for military action against Iran and strong ties with European allies. Jagruti Dave has the story from Washington. Syria NewlyElected Parliament Holds First Session Syria's newly elected parliament has held its first session since the ouster of former President Bashar Assad. The reconvening of parliament aims to restart the legislative process after years of conflict and autocratic rule. Two-thirds of the 210-member People's Assembly were elected while one-third were appointed by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The new parliament will serve a 30-month term. The launch indicates progress in drafting new laws as Syria recovers from decades of Assad's rule and a deadly war. Legislators elected Abdul Hamid al-Awak as speaker. Al-Awak, a former judge, defected from the Assad government early in the uprising (起義、叛亂). That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9erfpy -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened 71-points higher this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,805, on turnover of 9.8 billion N-T. The market rose again on Wednesday after falling a day earlier.  Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing got support from last-minute buying near the end of trading. Lawmakers call for officials to resign over contaminated cooking oil case A Legislative committee has passed a motion (動議) calling for (要求) Premier Cho Jung-tai, Health Minister Shih Chung-liang and Food and Drug Administration head Chiang Chih-kang to step down (辭職) and take responsibility for the latest cooking oil contamination case. The motion was passed during a meeting of the legislative Social Welfare and Environmental Hygiene Committee. The committee asked health, education and economics officials to report on food safety measures following the discovery of excessive levels (含量過高) of a carcinogen (致癌物) in soybean oil produced by Central Union Oil Corp. Opposition lawmakers criticized the Lai administration for changing its policy on the issue several times. The motion also asks all three officials to apologize (道歉) to the public. Lai touts ties with Guatemala  President Lai Ching-te says Taiwan will build stronger ties with Guatemala. He says his administration will encourage (鼓勵) more Taiwanese companies to use Guatemala as a base (以…為基地) for entering Latin American markets. The statement came as Lai held talks with the visiting president of Guatemala's Congress, Luis Alberto Contreras Colindres. According to Lai, closer ties between Taiwan and Guatemala will bring more business opportunities for both sides. Lai also said Guatemalan exports to Taiwan have reached 130 million US dollars for two years in a row. He said Guatemala is quickly becoming Taiwan's largest supplier of sugar and fourth-largest supplier of coffee. US launches second, larger wave of strikes on Iran as Trump says ceasefire is over The United States has launched a second, larger wave of airstrikes (空襲) against Iran. The strikes targeted (以…為目標) coastal radar installations and anti-ship missile sites along the country's southeastern coast. US President Donald Trump declared the ceasefire with Tehran "over" while attending the NATO summit in Ankara. He warned of further escalation if Iran continued to target commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Revolutionary Guard responded by launching missiles and drones at dozens of American military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait. But reporter Kate Fisher in Washington says Trump later seemed to leave a small chance for talks to restart (重新開始). China allocates funds for disaster relief China has allocated (撥款) millions in relief (救助) funding for disaster-hit areas after severe storms and a deadly landslide. The central government has provided 7.4 million US dollars to repair infrastructure (修復基礎設施) in Hubei province. It has also provided other funds to rebuild homes and move residents to safer places. Eleven people died in thunderstorms and tornadoes on Monday. Gansu province will receive 4.4 million US dollars after a landslide killed 21 forestry workers. Earlier funding was given to Guangxi, where flooding from Tropical Storm Maysak has caused six deaths and forced 130,000 people to leave their homes. Heavy rain is still hitting parts of China, and more rain from a typhoon is expected over the weekend. Canada PM Visiting Saudi Arabia Canada's prime minister is visiting Saudi Arabia. It is the first trip by a Canadian leader to the kingdom in 26 years. The visit is aimed at expanding (擴大) Canada's economic ties beyond the United States. Today, Mark Carney will meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler. He will also speak at the Saudi Arabia-Canada Investment Forum. The trip shows Canada's effort to diversify (多元化) trade as it faces US tariff threats. Saudi Arabia is also looking for foreign investment as it tries to move its economy beyond oil. Canada and Saudi Arabia restored full diplomatic ties in 2023, ending a dispute over human rights criticism. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 45-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,524 on turnover of 8.7-billion N-T. The market tumbled on Tuesday as investors continued to rotate funds out of the electronics sector amid worries over valuations (估價). MOHW expands contaminated cooking oil recall Health Minister Shih Chung-liang has announced the widening of a recall order for products linked to contaminated cooking oil produced by Central Union Oil. The latest move means that all processed foods made using the affected oil should have been removed from store shelves by midnight. It overrides a previous order that only products containing more than 20-per cent of the affected oil needed to be recalled (撤回) and removed from stores. According to the health ministry, all affected secondary products must now be removed from the market as a precaution and can only return to store shelves after manufacturers provide test results confirming they are safe for human consumption. Taoyuan Airport sees record number of passengers in first half of year The Taoyuan International Airport reportedly handled some 25.78-million passengers in the first half of this year. That figure is a new record for the period. Reports says the airport saw passenger volume rise by 9-per cent from the same period of last year. According to the airport operator, it firmly (牢牢) believes that passenger volume for the whole of this year could reach 50-million. Summer travel demand is expected to peak this month and next month, when total takeoffs and landings are forecast to reach 46,000. US RETALIATORY STR**IKES HIT IRANIAN PORTS AND MILITARY SITES AFTER IRAN **ATTACKS THREE COMMERCIAL VESSELS IN STRAIT OF HORMUZ The United States has launched retaliatory (報復性) strikes against Iran, hitting port facilities, missile and drone sites, and air defence installations on Tuesday evening — in response to Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The website Axios reports the American military response far exceeded previous exchanges between the two sides, while Iran's deputy foreign minister has warned Tehran will take decisive measures. Jagruti Dave in Washington says the conflict's impact on oil prices is a growing concern in the United States, particularly with midterm elections on the horizon. Pakistan Cargo Plane Search Continues A Pakistani cargo plane with five crew members is missing after rapidly descending (下降) and losing contact with air traffic controllers. Pakistan’s airport authority reported the incident late Tuesday off the coast of Karachi. The Boeing 737 reported a navigation system problem at 9:18 p.m. local time. Radar data showed it rapidly descending and changing course at about 9:21 p.m. before losing contact about 287 kilometers west of Karachi. Search-and-rescue operations are underway in the Arabian Sea. France Le Pen to Run for Presidency Far-right leader Marine Le Pen says she’ll run for the French presidency next year despite being sentenced to wear a court-ordered electronic monitor for embezzlement. The decision by the 57-year-old veteran of three presidential races sets up a fourth campaign like no other. She potentially could be seeking votes while subject to electronic monitoring and a judge’s determination (判定) of how, and for how long, the punishment is applied. Le Pen said she will appeal Tuesday's ruling to France’s highest court. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened slightly (稍微) lower this morning at 46,537. Turnover stood at 11-billion N.T. dollars. The market closed lower Monday after an early rise. Investors were worried that tech stocks had become too expensive. That led to a large selloff (拋售) in the tech sector. MAC claims China may be involved in attack on Japanese commentator The Mainland Affairs Council says China may have been involved in an attack on Japanese commentator (評論員) Akio Yaita. A Hong Kong man was arrested on suspicion of punching Yaita after he gave a speech in Taichung. The attack led to claims on social media that China may have been involved. The council says it warned other agencies that the case "could involve transnational repression (跨國鎮壓)." Yaita is the CEO of the Indo-Pacific Strategic Thinktank. He had just finished giving a speech at an an event organized by the Spring Rain Foundation at a hotel in Taichung when he was punched in the face as he was making a phone call Keelung to revoke preschool's license over child abuse case The Keelung City Government says a preschool may lose its license (執照) as early as tomorrow over a child abuse (虐待) case. Officials will review the second stage of the investigation later today. The city has released the names of two teachers found responsible for abuse. The city also filed a criminal complaint last week. Several children at the preschool in Qidu District were found with bruises (瘀青) allegedly caused by abuse. French President visits Syria after Assad's ouster French President Emmanuel Macron has arrived in Syria, becoming the first major Western leader to visit since Bashar al-Assad's ouster (驅逐) in 2024. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited in April, but Macron is the first from western Europe or North America. His visit comes during a period of relative calm (相對平靜) in the Middle East after the monthlong war in Iran and Lebanon. Macron is also set to attend a NATO summit (高峰會) in Ankara, Turkey. Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa is also expected to attend the summit and hold a high-profile meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump's pardons for Jan. 6 rioters don't apply to DC pipe bomb suspect, judge rules A judge says US President Donald Trump’s pardons (赦免) for January 6th rioters do not apply to a suspect in the D.C. pipe bomb case. The case may now move toward trial. Prosecutors say the suspect may have a link to the Capitol riot. But that claim has not yet been tested in court. AP correspondent Ed Donahue reports  Cuba hit by islandwide blackout Cuba has been hit by an islandwide blackout (停電) as fuel supplies (燃料供應) run low. The country’s Electric Union reported the blackout Monday. It says the cause is still under investigation. Fuel has been running out since January, after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened tariffs on countries that sell oil to Cuba. Public transportation has largely stopped, and officials have canceled tens of thousands of surgeries. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn