Top News Stories for October 18, 2025
Here's a roundup of the major headlines from around the world today, drawing from global sources. I've focused on key developments in politics, international relations, sports, and more.
World News
- Iran's UN Sanctions Expire: Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that all United Nations Security Council restrictions on the country will end today following the expiration of Resolution 2231, which endorsed the 2015 nuclear deal. This was acknowledged by over 120 members of the Non-Aligned Movement at their recent summit in Uganda.
- Pakistan Strikes Afghan Soil, Breaking Ceasefire: Pakistani forces launched attacks on Afghan territory late Friday, killing at least 10 people and ending a brief two-day calm along the border, according to officials.
- Gaza Ceasefire Violations: Gaza authorities reported 47 breaches by the Israeli army since the ceasefire began, resulting in 38 deaths and 143 injuries. Hamas has called for accountability.
- Fire at Indian MP Housing Complex: A massive blaze erupted at an apartment building in Delhi housing several Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs, opposite Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. No casualties were reported, but the incident disrupted the area.
US News & Politics
- Trump Cautious on Ukraine Missiles: During a White House meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, US President Donald Trump stated it would be premature to supply Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, emphasizing hopes for a peace deal with Russia first.
- "No Kings Day" Protests Surge: Millions participated in "No Kings" demonstrations across the US against President Trump, protesting perceived corruption, election denial, and autocracy. Organizers reported over 5 million attendees this summer, with major events today in Washington, D.C., and other cities.
- Social Security COLA Announcement Delayed: The Social Security Administration postponed its 2026 cost-of-living adjustment reveal due to the government shutdown. It's now set for October 24, with early estimates suggesting a modest 2.7% increase—up slightly from 2025's 2.5%.
- Teen Battles Rare Meningitis: An 18-year-old student, Ryan Duffy, was hospitalized with Streptococcus Pneumoniae Meningitis, highlighting ongoing public health concerns.
India & Regional News
- GST Rate Cuts Lower Prices on 54 Items: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced price reductions on goods like cars and televisions following recent GST adjustments, as part of the "GST Bachat Utsav 2025" initiative.
- Rajnath Singh Warns Pakistan on BrahMos Missiles: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the first batch of BrahMos missiles produced in Lucknow, stating that every inch of Pakistan is within range and referencing "Operation Sindoor" as a mere "trailer."
- Bihar Election Controversy: Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized opposition parties for nominating Osama Shahab, son of late don Mohammad Shahabuddin, in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections.
Sports & Entertainment
- Shohei Ohtani Leads Dodgers to World Series: In a historic two-way performance, Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani powered his team past the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 4 of the NLCS, securing a World Series berth.
- Philippines Wins Back-to-Back Miss Grand International: Emma Tiglao crowned Miss Grand International 2025, marking the Philippines' second consecutive victory after CJ Opiaza's 2024 win—a historic achievement celebrated nationwide.
Other Notable Mentions
- Czech Election Complaints: A court received 37 complaints regarding the recent Czech elections, amid broader European political shifts.
- NFL Update: Bucs' Egbuka Returns to Practice: Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie WR Emeka Egbuka is back on the field after a hamstring injury, alongside Mike Evans, boosting team prospects.