Introduction to Today's Briefing Today's news covers a wide range of topics, from sports and entertainment to world events and technological advancements.

Sports News India has beaten Pakistan to take the gold at the Asian Games, thanks to the efforts of Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma. In other sports news, Max Verstappen has taken his first pole position of 2026 at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, ahead of Hamilton. Additionally, golfer Tom Kim has won gold at the Asian Games, securing an exemption from mandatory military service in South Korea.

World Events A flydubai co-pilot attacked the captain with an axe, according to a UAE official, causing the plane to plunge over 17,000 feet before passengers and crew overpowered the attacker. Russia has also struck a second major bridge in Kyiv, following repeat attacks on another major bridge in recent days. In the US, a Cornell frat house rape accuser is being targeted online, with her lawyer stating that she is 'under siege' and 'not doing well' amid attempts to uncover her identity.

Entertainment and Technology A film festival is being held to celebrate British-Latino identity, featuring 60 films from 27 countries over five days. However, social media is being blamed for ruining big gig surprises, as fans share major moments from headline acts online before many others have a chance to see them. In technology news, Meta is giving away the code for its Muse technology for free, in the hopes that it will be integrated into a wide range of gadgets. Sean Parker is also rebuilding Stability AI around music, with the backing of the music industry.

Politics and Business The Tories have pledged to build 50,000 new prison places, in an effort to stop prisoners being released early and cut crime. A suspect has been charged with planning a terror act against Farage, following a 'hugely intensive and complex investigation'. In business news, the G7 is set to release 100 million barrels of oil and diesel, in an effort to head off further price spikes and avoid a ban on US diesel exports. The US jobs market has seen a sharp slowdown in September, with unemployment rising slightly as employers pause hiring ahead of the midterm elections.

Science and Environment The island is hosting an inter-island environment summit, bringing together delegates to share ideas and develop joint projects. There is also speculation that El Niño could mean there are no Atlantic hurricanes this year, as September has passed without a single hurricane - a first in three decades.