The skies that turned orange - and the threat of lawsuits: the toxic cloud that could "ignite" South Asia

Massive forest fires in Indonesia are blanketing Southeast Asian countries in thick, toxic smoke, leading to a severe diplomatic crisis with Singapore and Malaysia. Singapore is threatening to prosecute companies responsible for the fires, while Indonesia initially refused international aid. Nearly 280,000 people are suffering from respiratory infections.

Massive forest fires in Indonesia are blanketing Southeast Asian countries in thick, toxic smoke, leading to a severe diplomatic crisis with Singapore and Malaysia. Singapore is threatening to prosecute companies responsible for the fires, and its Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced the distribution of masks to at-risk citizens and consideration of joint action with other countries. The smoke has reached Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, East Timor, the Philippines, and Vietnam, affecting millions, closing schools, and causing a sharp rise in respiratory illnesses. Indonesia initially refused international aid but agreed to accept it towards the end of the week. Citizens in Malaysia and Singapore are sharing photos of their cities covered in haze, and frustration is growing. Indonesia's Health Ministry reported nearly 280,000 people suffering from respiratory infections, including more than 60,000 children under five. Four firefighters were killed battling the blaze on the island of Java. Pressure is mounting on Jakarta to declare a national disaster, a demand supported by local politicians and neighboring countries.

The skies that turned orange - and the threat of lawsuits: the toxic cloud that could "ignite" South Asia