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Latest Publications — Page 726

  1. PoliticsMiddle EastIsraelSci Policy

    Israelis Worry About Weakening Connection with Younger Jewish Americans

    Israelis across political and religious lines express concern about the diminishing bond with younger Jewish Americans. A recent AP-NORC poll indicates that younger generations view support for Israel as less crucial to their Jewish identity compared to older adults. Programs like Taglit-Birthright aim to strengthen this relationship, but the perception of Israel as a refuge is challenged by ongoing tensions and conflicts.
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  4. WorldBillRegulatorsTrialMiddle East

    Russian Embassy Seeks Comprehensive Investigation into Murder of Russians in Pattaya

    The Embassy of Russia in Thailand has called for a thorough investigation into the murder of two Russian citizens in Pattaya. The victims were killed during an attempted robbery, with the suspects admitting to the crime. The motive was reportedly the theft of a motorcycle. The Russian Embassy has expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and will continue to monitor the investigation.
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  7. ScienceChinaSci Policy

    China's Face Rental Market Booms for AI-Generated Content

    In China, a new market has emerged where individuals rent out their faces to AI-dependent production companies. Platforms like ActID and New Claw create catalogs of faces, allowing producers to select individuals based on age, gender, and type for use in micro-dramas, advertisements, and video games. Users determine where their likeness appears and set their own prices, ranging from $14.5 to $74 per episode or $74 per image. AI was used in over 95% of the 128,000 micro-dramas released in China in the first three months of 2026. However, lawyers warn about potential loss of control over biometric data and unclear usage rights.
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  9. WorldMiddle East

    Fuel Price Increase Leads to Higher Inter-Regional Transport Fares

    The National Agency for Road Transport (ANTA) has increased the maximum fare for regular passenger transport between regions in response to rising fuel prices. Effective July 31, carriers can charge up to 1.09 lei per kilometer for one passenger, a 3.8% increase from the previous fare of 1.05 lei/km/passenger. The new fare is based on the average cost of diesel fuel over the past seven days, which was 30.96 lei per liter. ANTA can review and adjust fares every seven days if there is a significant fluctuation in fuel prices.
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  10. WorldLocal GovMiddle EastBudget

    Ecuador Increases Public Transport Fares by 25% Nationwide

    The National Transit Agency (ANT) of Ecuador has approved a 25% increase in public transport fares for intra and interprovincial travel, effective August 1. The decision follows a technical analysis conducted by ANT, considering factors such as fuel prices, maintenance costs, and spare parts. The fare adjustment aims to ensure the sustainability of the transport service and improve its quality. Authorities will carry out control operations to prevent overcharging and ensure users' rights during the transition to the new fare scheme. The increase is accompanied by commitments from transport operators to enhance service quality.
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  15. U.S.BudgetTradeHardware

    US Economy Slows Down in Q2

    The US economy grew at an annualized rate of 1.5% in the second quarter, down from 2.1% in Q1, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. This was below expectations and reflected a decline in government spending, slowdowns in investment and exports, partially offset by an acceleration in consumer spending. The growth was supported by robust consumer spending and business investment in AI infrastructure-related equipment.
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