Piper James, a Canadian teenager, was found dead on a beach in Australia. Authorities are investigating whether she drowned during a swim or if a dingo attack was involved. Piper was in Australia for a backpacking trip and had been working at a hostel.
Key Facts
Piper James was 19 years old and from Canada.
Her body was discovered on a beach on K'Gari, an island off Australia's eastern coast.
A pack of dingoes surrounded her body when it was found.
Authorities are investigating the cause of her death, considering drowning, animal attack, or other reasons.
Piper had been in Australia traveling and working at a backpacker's hostel.
She had hoped to travel and saved money for the trip after finishing high school.
Her parents were worried about her traveling alone and had advised against swimming alone.
The area where she was found is known for its dingo population, which is protected as a native species in Queensland.
The largest train drivers' union in Spain has called for a national strike due to safety concerns after three recent train derailments resulted in fatalities and injuries. These accidents have caused public worry about the condition of Spain's railway system. Spanish authorities are in discussions with the union to prevent the strike and address safety issues.
Key Facts
Spain's biggest train drivers' union is planning a strike for safety reasons.
Three train derailments in Spain this week have caused numerous deaths and injuries.
A deadly train collision in Cordoba killed at least 43 people—the country's worst in over ten years.
Another train accident near Barcelona resulted in one death and 37 injuries.
Spanish officials are investigating the accidents and have enforced speed limits on some train routes.
The train drivers' union had previously warned about track issues and requested safety investigations.
The government is negotiating with the union to try to stop the strike and improve rail safety.
Public concerns have grown over the safety of Spain's trains, with officials promising more safety checks.
A judge ruled that lawmakers can sue to force the release of files on Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell but said they cannot add this demand to Maxwell's criminal case. The judge agreed with the Justice Department that he did not have the power to grant the lawmakers' request in the case.
Key Facts
Lawmakers can file a lawsuit for releasing the Epstein-Maxwell files.
The judge said they cannot attach their request to Maxwell's criminal case.
The Epstein Files Transparency Act, backed by U.S. lawmakers, became law in November.
President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law.
The judge agreed with the Justice Department on his limited authority in the Maxwell case.
The government identified over 2 million documents related to Epstein and Maxwell investigations.
President Donald Trump spoke at the World Economic Forum about wanting the U.S. to acquire Greenland. During his speech, he made some incorrect statements about NATO, Greenland's history with Denmark, and the U.S. housing market. He assured that he would not use force to get Greenland but mentioned using negotiation tactics like tariffs.
Key Facts
President Trump expressed interest in acquiring Greenland for the U.S.
He made the speech at the World Economic Forum.
Trump incorrectly described NATO and Greenland's history with Denmark.
He also made inaccurate claims related to the U.S. housing market.
Trump stated he would not use military force to acquire Greenland.
He mentioned he could use tariff negotiations as a strategy.
Eight countries in the Middle East and Asia are joining a new initiative led by President Donald Trump called the "board of peace" to promote a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. These countries aim to support the rebuilding of Gaza and work towards a lasting peace that respects Palestinian rights. Concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of this initiative, especially with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's involvement.
Key Facts
Eight countries are joining the "board of peace" led by President Trump to promote peace in Gaza.
The countries involved are Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
The board aims to establish a permanent ceasefire and support Gaza's reconstruction.
The plan includes working toward Palestinian self-determination and a lasting peace.
Concerns exist about the participation of strong Israel supporters and the role of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Netanyahu faces allegations of war crimes in Gaza and is involved in the peace initiative.
Palestinians in Gaza remain affected by Israeli military actions and limited aid access.
The Palestinian Health Ministry reports 466 deaths due to Israeli attacks since October.
Prince Harry appeared in a UK courtroom for what might be his last time in a legal battle against Associated Newspapers. He described how media intrusion affected his life and family, claiming unlawful information gathering. The court case continues, focusing on disputes over press stories from years ago.
Key Facts
Prince Harry testified in a court case against Associated Newspapers.
Harry claims unlawful methods were used to gather information about his private life.
He discussed the emotional impact and privacy intrusions by the press.
The courtroom scene was modern, without traditional furnishings.
Harry described feeling paranoid from media attention.
The court case involves stories written many years ago.
Prince Harry is now in his forties and reflected on past media coverage.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that the global rules-based order, which has been supported by the United States, is ending. Recent U.S. actions, such as military moves in Venezuela and Greenland, show a shift towards a more aggressive international stance under President Trump. Carney suggests a new era of strong competition among major powers is starting.
Key Facts
Mark Carney spoke at the World Economic Forum about the decline of the global rules-based order.
The U.S. has undertaken military action in Venezuela and expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, which is part of Denmark.
President Trump has criticized European countries and shown a desire for Greenland, despite opposition from Greenlanders and Denmark.
The United Nations was originally designed to reflect global rules, but President Trump is proposing a new concept called the "Board of Peace."
European allies are reconsidering their relationship with the U.S. due to its recent unilateral actions.
Past U.S. actions have included exiting international agreements, such as not accepting the authority of the International Criminal Court.
NATO's former deputy allied commander described the U.S. as shifting from an "ally" to a "predator."
Olivia Dean and Lola Young lead the 2026 Brit Awards nominations with five each. Both artists are recognized for their successful singles and albums. The awards ceremony will also highlight artists like Sam Fender, Pulp, and Lily Allen.
Key Facts
Olivia Dean and Lola Young each have five Brit Award nominations.
The categories they are nominated in include artist of the year and song of the year.
Sam Fender has four nominations, including album of the year.
Pulp is nominated for best group, the first time since 1996.
Other nominees include Lily Allen, Wolf Alice, and Dave.
The Brit Awards ceremony will take place in Manchester next month.
Olivia Dean's album, "The Art of Loving," is a top contender for best album.
Taylor Swift has become the youngest female artist to be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. She joins other well-known artists in the 2026 class, including Alanis Morissette and Walter Afanasieff. The Songwriters Hall of Fame recognizes those who have created popular and influential music.
Key Facts
Taylor Swift is the youngest female artist inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
The Songwriters Hall of Fame was founded in 1969 to honor influential song creators.
Less than 500 people have been inducted into the Hall of Fame over the past fifty years.
The 2026 class includes songwriters like Alanis Morissette, Walter Afanasieff, and Christopher "Tricky" Stewart.
Taylor's latest album, "The Life of a Showgirl," broke her sales record in October.
Swift previously won the album of the year Grammy four times, a record achievement.
She recently bought back the rights to her first six albums after a publicized dispute.
Her latest album had the UK's largest opening week of 2025, selling 304,000 copies in three days.
The article discusses a documentary that follows Tunisian TV host Hassen as he cares for his mother, Saliha, who is suffering from lung cancer. It shows their journey through medical challenges and personal moments, highlighting their strong bond and the choices they face. After Saliha's death, Hassen continues his work, influenced by his mother's memory.
Key Facts
Hassen is a TV host in Tunisia who takes care of his mother, Saliha.
Saliha is suffering from lung cancer.
The documentary captures their everyday life, including birthdays, medical visits, and quiet times together.
Hassen works to maintain joy and dignity for Saliha despite her illness.
They face difficult decisions about medical treatment and comfort.
After Saliha's death, Hassen returns to hosting TV shows, guided by her memory.
The film shows caregiving as a mix of challenge and deep love.
An Israeli strike in Gaza killed three Palestinian journalists, according to first responders. The Israeli military stated they targeted suspects operating a drone they believed was a threat. The deaths occurred amid ongoing violence between Israel and Hamas.
Key Facts
Three Palestinian journalists were killed in an Israeli strike in central Gaza.
The journalists were working for an Egyptian relief organization and were identified as Mohammed Salah Qeshta, Anas Ghunaim, and Abdul Raouf Shaath.
The Israeli military targeted individuals they believed were operating a Hamas-affiliated drone.
Gaza's health ministry reported eight additional deaths from Israeli artillery and gunfire on the same day.
The ongoing conflict began after a Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
At least 466 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the ceasefire started on October 10, according to Gaza's health ministry.
The Committee to Protect Journalists has reported the killings of over 206 journalists and media workers in Gaza since the conflict began.
The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate called the deaths a war crime, claiming it was part of a policy to silence Palestinian voices.
President Donald Trump stated at the World Economic Forum that he will not use force to take Greenland, but is seeking talks for the United States to acquire the island. Trump emphasized the importance of Greenland for U.S. national security, despite opposition from Greenlanders and European leaders.
Key Facts
President Trump said he won't use force to take over Greenland.
He wants to negotiate with Denmark about the U.S. acquiring Greenland.
Trump considers Greenland important for U.S. national security.
Greenland is a self-governing territory of Denmark.
European leaders and Greenlanders oppose the U.S. taking control of Greenland.
Trump mistakenly referred to Greenland as Iceland several times during his speech.
European countries, including the UK, France, and Denmark, are united in their stance on Greenland's status.
Trump hinted that Denmark's response could affect U.S. relations with NATO.
The U.S. military is moving up to 7,000 Islamic State (IS) fighters from prisons in northeastern Syria to Iraq. This action is intended to stop potential threats to the U.S. and other countries in the region. The transfer follows conflict and prison escapes involving Kurdish-led forces and the Syrian government.
Key Facts
The U.S. is transferring up to 7,000 IS fighters from Syria to Iraq.
150 fighters have already been moved to a secure location in Iraq.
The transfer aims to prevent breakouts that could threaten regional security.
A ceasefire was announced between the Syrian government and Kurdish-led forces.
Syrian forces re-entered areas after 120 IS fighters escaped from a Kurdish-run prison.
81 of the escaped IS fighters have been re-arrested.
Kurdish forces and Syrian government blame each other for the prison break.
The U.S. used to be a key ally of Kurdish forces in Syria against IS activities.
President Donald Trump spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. His speech included topics like Europe's environmental policies and discussions about the ownership of Greenland. The BBC's Economics Editor reported on how people in the room received his speech.
Key Facts
President Trump gave a speech in Davos, Switzerland.
The event was the annual World Economic Forum.
Trump discussed Europe's green policies.
He talked about Greenland and said the U.S. should own it.
Trump stated that he would not use force to acquire Greenland.
The BBC's Economics Editor, Faisal Islam, reported on the audience's reaction to the speech.
A video from the World Economic Forum in Davos featuring Katy Perry and former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau sparked mixed reactions online. The video was shared by The Female Quotient, a group aiming to promote workplace equality for women. Some people praised the duo for discussing issues like women’s equality, while others criticized the focus on their relationship.
Key Facts
The Female Quotient is an organization focused on workplace equality for women.
The group shared a video of Katy Perry and former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at Davos.
The video showed Perry supporting Trudeau during an event about women’s leadership.
Reactions to the video were mixed, with some questioning its relevance to the group's mission.
Trudeau spoke at Davos about topics like Canada’s influence and supporting women’s equality.
Some commentators criticized Trudeau's past actions concerning women in his administration.
Supporters defended the video, highlighting Perry's long history of supporting women’s rights.
Police in Devon, England, found the body of a 47-year-old man after two swimmers went missing on Christmas Day. The man is believed to be one of the missing swimmers at Budleigh Salterton beach, although official identification is still pending.
Key Facts
Two men went missing on Christmas Day at Budleigh Salterton beach in Devon, England.
Police found the body of a 47-year-old man on Tuesday.
Authorities believe this man is one of the missing swimmers.
The other missing swimmer is a local antiques dealer named Matthew Upham, 64.
Police have informed and are supporting the families of both men.
Formal identification of the body has not yet been completed.
Devon and Cornwall Police are handling the investigation and providing updates.
An Israeli comedian and former soldier named Guy Hochman was held in Toronto, Canada. He was questioned because a group accused him of war crimes and incitement related to Gaza, based on what he posted on social media.
Key Facts
Guy Hochman is an Israeli comedian and former combat soldier.
He was detained in Toronto, Canada.
The detention happened because of complaints made by the Hind Rajab Foundation.
The complaints accused Hochman of war crimes and incitement in Gaza.
The accusations were based on Hochman's posts on social media.
Rifaat al-Assad, the uncle of Syria's former president Bashar al-Assad, died in the United Arab Emirates at the age of 89. He was once the commander of Syria's Defence Companies and was involved in the 1982 Hama massacre. Rifaat spent many years in exile and faced legal challenges related to his finances and actions during his time in power.
Key Facts
Rifaat al-Assad died on January 21, 2026, in the UAE at the age of 89.
He was a key figure in Syria's political history, known for leading the Defence Companies.
In 1982, he played a major role in the Hama massacre, where many people died.
Rifaat had a dispute with his brother, Hafez al-Assad, and attempted a coup in the 1980s.
He spent 36 years in exile, mostly in Europe, facing legal issues for his wealth.
In 2020, a French court sentenced him for money laundering.
In 2023, Switzerland issued an arrest warrant for his involvement in 1982 war crimes.
Rifaat returned to Syria in 2021, later moving to Dubai after the Assad regime fell.
Palestinians in Gaza are surprised and skeptical about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu being part of a "Board of Peace" supported by the United States, intended to help rebuild Gaza. Many Palestinians view Netanyahu as responsible for the conflict and question his role in peace efforts.
Key Facts
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is joining a US-supported "Board of Peace."
The board aims to help rebuild the Gaza Strip.
Palestinians in Gaza are surprised by Netanyahu's involvement.
Many Gaza residents blame Netanyahu for the ongoing conflict.
There is skepticism about Netanyahu's ability to contribute to peace efforts.
Mandy Wixon was found guilty of keeping a woman with learning difficulties captive for 25 years in England. The victim, known as K, was forced to perform labor and live in poor conditions until police rescued her in 2021. Wixon's sentencing is scheduled for March 12.
Key Facts
Mandy Wixon was found guilty of keeping a woman as a slave for 25 years in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire.
The victim, called K, has learning difficulties and was forced to clean Wixon's home and live off scraps.
K suffered abuse, including having washing-up liquid squirted down her throat and bleach splashed on her face.
Police arrested Wixon after one of her sons raised concerns about the victim's welfare.
K was not allowed to leave the house and had to wash secretly at night.
Police described K's living conditions as similar to a "prison cell."
Since being rescued, K is living with a foster family, attending college, and traveling abroad.
