China has banned hidden car door handles on electric vehicles (EVs) due to safety concerns, becoming the first country to prohibit the design popularized by Tesla, according to BBC Technology. The new regulations, prompted by scrutiny of EV safety following deadly incidents, including two fatal crashes in China involving Xiaomi EVs, will take effect on January 1, 2027.
The rule mandates that all cars sold must have a mechanical release for doors both inside and outside the vehicle, state media reported. This decision comes as the world grapples with a "democratic recession," as noted in a Human Rights Watch (HRW) report highlighted by The Guardian, with nearly three-quarters of the global population living under autocratic rule, levels not seen since the 1980s. The report cited growing authoritarianism and abuses in the US, Russia, and China as threats to the global rules-based order.
Meanwhile, China's state-owned planemaker, Comac, is making strides in the aviation industry, aiming to compete with Airbus and Boeing, according to BBC Business. Comac showcased its C919 passenger jet at the Singapore Airshow, marking its first trip outside of Chinese territory two years ago. The company is targeting markets beyond China, with a focus on the Southeast Asian aviation market. "Comac is setting sights on the Southeast Asian aviation market," the company stated.
In other international news, a small number of sick and wounded Palestinians were allowed to cross into Egypt through the Rafah border crossing to seek medical treatment, The Guardian reported. Israel permitted a limited reopening of the border, with about 150 people due to leave the territory and 50 to enter it. However, on the first day, only 12 Palestinians were permitted to re-enter, according to Reuters.
Adding to the geopolitical landscape, Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum pledged to send humanitarian aid to Cuba, despite US efforts to cut off oil access, The Guardian reported. This move follows former President Trump signing an order threatening tariffs on countries that sell oil to Cuba. Mexico is exploring all diplomatic avenues to send fuel to the Cuban people.
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