World news bites: Elon Musk buys $35-million mansion

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US – Elon Musk recently bought a $35-million, 1,338-square-metre Tuscan-style mansion in Austin, Texas, and a neighbouring six-bedroom property. The Tesla founder reportedly plans to use the new homes to accommodate his family, including ex-partners and younger children, to simplify coordination. Musk aims to have two of his children’s mothers, Shivon Zilis and singer Grimes, live in adjoining properties for easier access and to foster sibling connections. Musk shares twins Strider and Azure with Zilis and three young children with Grimes. 

Israel – Israel has banned the UN agency Unrwa (Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees) from operating within its borders and the Palestinian territories, citing concerns over alleged ties between some agency staff and Hamas. The Israeli parliament’s vote (92-10) to block Unrwa’s activities also designates the agency as a terrorist organisation, prohibiting direct interactions. The decision defies pressure from the US and other nations, as Unrwa provides essential services, such as food, water and medical aid, to Gaza’s residents. Aid groups warn that the ban, effective in 90 days, risks collapsing Gaza’s humanitarian support network.

Austria – Austrian wingsuit pilot Peter Salzmann achieved a record-breaking human flight by using a specially designed 2.1-metre foil to fly over Switzerland’s highest mountain, Jungfrau. The 5.45kg foil allowed him to glide without engine propulsion for nearly six minutes, reaching up to 200 km/h and covering 12.5km. Developed over three years, the foil doubles glide efficiency compared to standard wingsuits, marking a major advance in human flight.

China – TikTok co-founder Zhang Yiming, 41, has become China’s richest person, topping the 2024 Hurun China Rich List with a $49.3-billion fortune. Zhang’s wealth surged as ByteDance’s revenue rose 30% to $110-billion, driven by TikTok’s global popularity. Since launching in 2017, TikTok has attracted nearly 200-million US users and inspired other Chinese firms seeking global success. However, the app faces legal challenges in the US regarding data privacy and child protection, with potential nationwide restrictions. Similar national security concerns have led countries like India to ban TikTok, while others, including the UK and Australia, have restricted its use on government devices. Despite these hurdles, TikTok’s global user base continues to grow.

Pictured above: Elon Musk.

Source: X

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