(Washington/Tokyo) The International Monetary Fund (IMF) said the Asia-Pacific region remains the world's fastest-growing region, but higher tariffs and rising protectionism could weaken demand for Asia-Pacific exports and ultimately weigh on economic activity.

Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest volcano at 3,776 meters, saw its first snowfall of the year on Thursday (October 23rd). This was 21 days later than usual, making it the fourth-latest snowfall in history, but 15 days earlier than last year's record-breaking snowfall since observations began in 1894. The Kofu Local Meteorological Bureau in Yamanashi Prefecture, about 30 kilometers from Mount Fuji, observed significant snow accumulation near the summit around 6:00 a.m. Thursday. According to regulations, the Kofu Local Meteorological Bureau can only officially declare the first snowfall when snow can be seen covering the mountaintop with the naked eye. Tourists at Fujikawaguchiko in Yamanashi Prefecture excitedly took photos with the snow-covered Mount Fuji.

(Jerusalem Comprehensive News) The United States and Israel are considering dividing the Gaza Strip into two areas, one controlled by Israel and the other by Hamas, but reconstruction work will only be carried out in the Israeli-controlled area until Hamas disarms and steps down in accordance with the peace agreement.

(Washington Comprehensive News) U.S. Secretary of Defense (Secretary of War) Hegseth said that the U.S. military attacked two ships in the eastern Pacific on Tuesday, killing five suspected drug smugglers.

(Moscow/Kyiv/Washington) US President Donald Trump canceled a planned meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, citing a perceived lack of progress in negotiations on ending the war in Ukraine. Trump also imposed sanctions on two major Russian oil companies.

(Reuters, London) - Global debt increased by more than $21 trillion in the first half of this year to a record $337.7 trillion (S$438.8 trillion) due to an improved global financial environment, a weaker dollar and loosening policies by major central banks, the Institute of International Finance's quarterly report showed.

(Tokyo Comprehensive News) As U.S. President Trump visits Japan next Monday, Japanese media reported that new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi plans to achieve the goal of defense spending accounting for 2% of gross domestic product (GDP) two years ahead of schedule.

(Washington Comprehensive News) US President Trump confirmed that he will demolish the entire East Wing of the White House to facilitate his plan to build a large banquet hall. The demolition work has begun, which has aroused protests from Democrats and cultural heritage groups.