Moeen Ali, a former England cricketer, has decided to join Yorkshire and continue playing in the T20 Blast, a cricket competition. Previously, Moeen supported a teammate who faced racism at Yorkshire, and he believes the club has improved since then. Moeen hopes to help the team build better connections with communities.
Key Facts
Moeen Ali is a former England all-rounder and two-time World Cup winner.
He reversed his retirement decision to play for Yorkshire in the T20 Blast.
Moeen previously supported Azeem Rafiq, a Yorkshire player who experienced racism.
He believes Yorkshire has made positive changes toward inclusivity.
Moeen has played 420 T20 matches, scoring 7,792 runs and taking 271 wickets.
Yorkshire's cricket general manager praised Moeen's ability to set high standards.
Moeen is known for his stance against excessive drinking and its effects on performance.
The move allows Moeen to play at Headingley, a famous cricket ground, alongside England's captain, Harry Brook.
In Yemen, Mehdi Galeb Nasr's family struggles with severe food shortages. Nasr, nearly blind, used to sell ice cream but now collects plastic bottles for a living. The International Rescue Committee warns that over half of Yemen's population faces worsening hunger in early 2026.
Key Facts
Mehdi Galeb Nasr was an ice cream vendor in Sanaa, Yemen, until he lost his vision in one eye.
Now, he collects plastic bottles to earn a small income, assisted by his family to prevent him from getting lost.
Yemen is experiencing significant food shortages, with projections showing over 18 million people facing hunger by early 2026.
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification system reported that an additional million people could face life-threatening hunger soon.
Yemen has been embroiled in ongoing conflict, including recent tensions involving Saudi Arabia and UAE-backed groups.
Years of conflict have disrupted lives, restricting access to basic services and worsening the food crisis.
Economic challenges such as unpaid salaries, inflation, and international sanctions have compounded the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.
In recent months, Saudi-backed forces have mostly regained control of areas previously taken by Yemeni separatist groups backed by UAE forces.
A new theme park is set to open in Bedfordshire by 2031, attracting millions of visitors and creating thousands of jobs. However, the local water treatment plant needs a significant upgrade to handle the increased sewage expected from the park. Anglian Water plans to expand the plant's capacity, and the theme park will contribute to these costs.
Key Facts
A new theme park in Bedfordshire is expected to open in 2031 and draw up to 12 million visitors annually by 2051.
The theme park will create around 8,000 permanent jobs.
The local Bedford Water Recycling Centre is already operating at full capacity.
Anglian Water plans a major expansion of the plant, funded by higher customer bills.
The theme park will pay a portion of the development costs for the sewage upgrade.
Recent health incidents among local rowers are suspected to be linked to sewage discharges into nearby rivers.
Anglian Water needs to speed up regulatory approvals to accommodate the park and other developments.
President Donald Trump stated that his administration aims to reduce the tension in Minnesota following the shooting of two U.S. citizens by federal agents, including nurse Alex Pretti. Pretti was filming Border Patrol officers when he was shot. There has been criticism over the handling of the situation by Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem, who suggested without investigation that Pretti was a threat.
Key Facts
President Trump announced efforts to reduce tensions in Minnesota after Alex Pretti's shooting.
Alex Pretti, a nurse, was filming Border Patrol officers when killed.
Pretti had a license to carry a gun, which he had during the incident.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem called Pretti's actions "domestic terrorism."
Noem's statement came before investigation results and opposed initial video evidence.
Two federal officers fired during the incident, according to a report sent to Congress.
Video footage suggests Pretti did not draw his weapon during the incident.
Federal law requires notification of Congress about deaths in custody within 72 hours.
The Indian government has asked quick delivery companies to stop promising 10-minute deliveries after incidents of dangerous working conditions and accidents involving delivery riders. Despite this, high competition among companies still pressures workers to deliver goods quickly, often risking their safety.
Key Facts
The Indian government requested companies to stop guaranteeing "10-minute deliveries" in January.
Delivery riders face dangers like road accidents, extreme heat, and toxic air.
Companies like Swiggy, Zomato, Zepto, and Amazon provide quick delivery services in India.
Riders often work under pressure due to a rating system that affects their income.
Ankush, a delivery rider, died in a traffic accident while trying to deliver within the 10-minute target on his first day at work.
The promise of speedy deliveries appeals to India’s large middle class, who rely on these services.
Delivery platforms use "dark stores" for stocking items to make quick deliveries possible.
Despite changes, riders still feel pressured to deliver orders as fast as possible.
A plane crash in India has resulted in the death of Ajit Pawar, the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra state. The crash occurred when the plane attempted to land in Baramati, resulting in the deaths of four others, including staff and crew members.
Key Facts
Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Ajit Pawar, died in a plane crash.
The flight originated from Mumbai and crashed while landing in Baramati.
The crash also killed two of Pawar's staff members and two crew members.
The Indian aviation authority, Directorate General of Civil Aviation, reported the incident.
Elena Rybakina and Jessica Pegula will compete in the semifinals of the Australian Open. Rybakina defeated Iga Swiatek, hoping for her second Grand Slam victory, and Pegula overcame Amanda Anisimova, advancing to her first Australian Open semifinal.
Key Facts
Elena Rybakina beat Iga Swiatek in straight sets at the Australian Open.
Rybakina aims for her second Grand Slam title, having won Wimbledon in 2022.
Jessica Pegula defeated Amanda Anisimova with a 6-2, 7-6 score.
Pegula has reached her first Australian Open semifinal without dropping a set.
Swiatek was working to achieve a career Grand Slam but lost.
Rybakina and Pegula have faced each other six times, each winning three matches.
The other semifinal match features Aryna Sabalenka and Elina Svitolina.
Ajit Pawar, the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, India, died in a plane crash along with four others. The crash happened at the airport in Baramati, where the plane was headed, after taking off from Mumbai. The cause of the crash is not yet known.
Key Facts
Ajit Pawar was the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, a state in India.
Pawar and four other people died in a plane crash.
The crash took place at the airport in Baramati, Maharashtra.
The plane took off from Mumbai, India.
The cause of the crash has not been confirmed yet.
Two of Pawar's staff members and two crew members also died in the crash.
Visuals from the crash site show the plane wreckage in smoke and flames.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over the crash on social media.
President Donald Trump has proposed a "Board of Peace" for rebuilding Gaza, but many European countries are hesitant or have declined to join. The board is seen by some as potentially undermining the United Nations, even as it forms part of Trump's broader foreign policy efforts. Hungary and Bulgaria are the only European Union countries that have agreed to participate, while others like France have refused.
Key Facts
President Trump launched a "Board of Peace" to oversee the rebuilding of Gaza.
Hungary and Bulgaria are the only EU countries that accepted the invitation to join the board.
France declined, citing concerns over the board's potential to challenge the United Nations' principles.
Denmark was not invited due to past diplomatic tensions over Greenland.
Trump signed the board's charter at the World Economic Forum in January.
The board is seen by some as a possible attempt to do the UN's job, which has caused concern.
Trump invited Russia, despite its ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
Board members are expected to contribute $1 billion each, without details on how funds will be used.
The Doomsday Clock, a symbol showing how close humanity is to catastrophe, has been set to 85 seconds to midnight for 2026. This is the closest it has been since the clock started in 1947. Scientists cite increased global threats, such as nuclear tensions, inadequate climate action, and new dangers from artificial intelligence.
Key Facts
The Doomsday Clock now stands at 85 seconds to midnight for 2026, the closest in its history.
The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists sets the clock each year to indicate global threats.
The organization cites worsening international cooperation on nuclear weapons, climate change, and biotechnology as concerns.
New threats from artificial intelligence were also mentioned as a reason for moving the clock closer to midnight.
The Bulletin highlighted 2025 conflicts, including Russia's war on Ukraine, India-Pakistan clashes, and US-Israel actions in Iran.
The organization criticized national and international responses to climate change as insufficient.
Renewable and nuclear energy surpassed 40% of global electricity generation in 2024.
The Doomsday Clock has shifted over the years, reflecting changes in global security and environmental risks.
The Iranian foreign minister stated that Iran has not requested talks with the U.S. and called for the U.S. to stop making war threats. This comes after President Trump claimed Iran was ready to make a deal to prevent U.S. strikes.
Key Facts
Iran's foreign minister is Abbas Araghchi.
Araghchi said Iran has not asked for negotiations with the U.S.
President Trump stated that Iran is ready to make a deal.
U.S. warships have moved into the region, described by President Trump as an "armada."
Araghchi noted ongoing contact with friendly intermediaries but no decision to negotiate.
Araghchi called for diplomacy without military threats or excessive demands.
Negotiations should be based on mutual respect and interests, according to Araghchi.
UPS, a major package-delivery company based in Georgia, plans to cut up to 30,000 jobs to save money and increase profits. The company aims to achieve $3 billion in savings by 2026 through measures such as reducing reliance on Amazon, offering voluntary buyouts, and closing some buildings.
Key Facts
UPS will cut up to 30,000 jobs to save money and increase profits.
The company aims to save $3 billion by 2026.
UPS plans to reduce its dependency on Amazon deliveries.
Voluntary buyouts and job cuts through attrition will be offered.
24 buildings will close in the first half of the year, with more closures possible later.
The company previously saved $3.5 billion in 2025 through similar measures.
Teamsters union president criticized the job cuts.
UPS expects revenues to reach $89.7 billion in 2026.
Winter storm warnings are in effect for Michigan, Alaska, and New York. These states could see up to 12 inches of snow and strong winds that may cause difficult travel and reduced visibility. The National Weather Service has issued these warnings to prepare people for potential blizzard conditions.
Key Facts
The National Weather Service predicts up to 12 inches of snow and 60 mph winds in some areas, leading to possible blizzard conditions.
Michigan could see up to 9 inches of snow, affecting places like Luce and Alger Counties, with travel issues expected.
Alaska's eastern range and parts of the Susitna Valley could experience up to 12 inches of snow and 60 mph winds, potentially causing travel disruptions.
New York, including Onondaga County, might receive 3-6 inches of snow, impacting areas like Baldwinsville.
Strong winds and heavy snow are expected to create low visibility, making travel very difficult in affected regions.
Visibility in some areas could drop to less than a quarter of a mile due to blowing snow.
During an event in Minneapolis, a man attacked U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar by spraying an unknown liquid at her. President Trump commented on the incident, suggesting Omar "probably had herself sprayed." The suspect, Anthony Kazmierczak, has been arrested and charged with third-degree assault.
Key Facts
Ilhan Omar was holding a town hall meeting in Minneapolis.
A man ran towards her and sprayed an unknown liquid using a syringe.
The attacker is identified as 55-year-old Anthony Kazmierczak.
Kazmierczak was arrested and charged with third-degree assault.
President Trump was asked about the incident but had not watched any video of it.
Trump remarked that Omar "probably had herself sprayed."
The incident report comes from sources like ABC News and The Associated Press.
Democrats won two special elections for the Minnesota House of Representatives. Meg Luger-Nikolai and Shelley Buck secured their seats with a high percentage of votes. These elections happened during discussions around President Trump's immigration policies in Minnesota.
Key Facts
Democrats won two special Minnesota elections.
Meg Luger-Nikolai won House District 64A with over 95% of the vote.
Her opponent, Republican Dan Walsh, got around 4.4% of the vote.
Shelley Buck won House District 47A with 97.6% of the vote, running unopposed.
The wins resulted in an even partisan split in Minnesota's lower house.
The elections coincided with reactions to President Trump's immigration actions in the state.
The high vote percentages were notable compared to previous elections in those districts.
A viral post on a platform called Threads sparked a debate about behavior on planes. A passenger shared a photo of a woman sitting with her feet on the seat during a flight in India, which led to divided opinions on appropriate conduct in public spaces.
Key Facts
The incident took place on a short internal flight in India from Chennai to Bangalore.
The viral post originated from a user named Maria Mammen on Threads.
The post showed a woman with her bare feet on the airplane seat while on her phone.
The post received over 4,500 likes and sparked various comments on plane etiquette.
Some comments criticized the woman's behavior as lacking civic sense.
Others defended the woman's actions, stating she was within her own space.
Booking.com etiquette guidelines advise against removing shoes during a flight for safety reasons.
Etiquette recommendations also include greeting crew, minimizing noise, and sharing armrests.
U.S. immigration agents attempted to enter the Ecuadorian consulate in Minneapolis but were stopped by consulate staff. Ecuador's government labeled it an "attempted incursion" and protested to the U.S. Embassy. International law protects consulates from such unauthorized entry.
Key Facts
U.S. immigration agents tried to enter the Ecuadorian consulate in Minneapolis.
Consulate staff stopped the agents and used emergency protocols to protect Ecuadorian citizens inside.
Ecuador's Foreign Ministry called the incident an "attempted incursion".
Ecuador filed a protest with the U.S. Embassy, asking for assurances against future incidents.
The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations protects consulates and requires law enforcement to have permission to enter, except in emergencies.
Videos on social media show the consulate staff denying entry to the agents.
The U.S. has ratified the Vienna Convention, which applies international legal protections to consulates.
The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) has sent five prisoners with indefinite sentences to the Court of Appeal for review. These sentences, called Indeterminate Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP), were stopped in 2012 but still affect around 2,800 people. The review could lead to changes for those still under these sentences.
Key Facts
The CCRC referred five IPP prisoners to the Court of Appeal.
IPP sentences were stopped in 2012 but affect about 2,800 people.
Originally, IPP sentences were given to those seen as dangerous but not severe enough for life sentences.
The Ministry of Justice supports actions to help these offenders.
Changes in law aim to quickly review these sentences for possible ends.
The referred prisoners were young when sentenced, between 2002 and 2010.
The Court of Appeal might change its approach to these cases, acknowledging changes in maturity over time.
The BBC interviewed Matthew Booth, sentenced at 15, who discussed the sentence's impact on him.
People in parts of Oregon and Montana are being asked to stay inside due to poor air quality. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that fine particle pollution, known as PM2.5, has reached levels considered "unhealthy."
Key Facts
Parts of Oregon and Montana have "unhealthy" air quality due to fine particle pollution (PM2.5).
The pollution levels were recorded as of January 28, 2026, according to the EPA's AirNow Map.
PM2.5 are tiny particles, smaller than a strand of hair, that can be inhaled into the lungs or bloodstream.
High levels of PM2.5 can worsen heart and lung conditions and cause symptoms like coughing and shortness of breath.
The EPA advises sensitive groups (older adults, children, and those with heart or lung issues) to avoid outdoor activities.
People are encouraged to use air purifiers indoors and avoid burning materials to keep indoor air clean.
PM2.5 can come from sources like wildfires, vehicle emissions, and industrial activities.
The EPA uses the Air Quality Index (AQI) to communicate air quality levels, with scores indicating the severity of pollution.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a close ally of President Donald Trump, accused Ukraine of crossing a line in a conflict with Hungary. Orban stated that Hungary will not send money to Ukraine or support a ban on Russian oil and gas imports. He also opposes Ukraine's quick entry into the European Union.
Key Facts
Viktor Orban, Hungary's Prime Minister, is a political ally of U.S. President Donald Trump.
Orban accused Ukraine of crossing a line in their conflict with Hungary.
Hungary will not send financial aid to Ukraine, which is currently at war with Russia.
Hungary refuses to support the European Union's plan to ban Russian oil and gas imports by 2027.
Hungary relies heavily on Russian gas for energy needs.
Orban opposes Ukraine's rapid admission to the EU, citing concerns about importing the conflict.
Orban emphasized that decisions for Hungary will not be made in Kyiv or Brussels.
