Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to call a snap election to increase support for her party, less than three months into her term. Her Liberal Democratic Party currently holds the most seats in the House of Representatives, but faces a new opposition challenge. Takaichi has strong approval ratings and has strengthened ties with the U.S., while relations with China have worsened.
Key Facts
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to announce a snap election soon.
The election will choose 465 members of Japan's House of Representatives.
Takaichi's party, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), holds 199 seats, the most of any party.
The LDP has a coalition majority with the Japan Innovation party in the lower house.
Takaichi has been a critic of China and supports strong defense policies.
She strengthened relations with the U.S., including a deal on rare earths with President Trump.
Her approval ratings are high, but the snap election poses risks due to a strong new opposition party.
The new opposition party is a merger of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and the Komeito party.
Clashes between rival rebel groups in Colombia resulted in the death of 27 people. The violence occurred in the Guaviare region, where groups are fighting over control of territory important for cocaine production. These clashes are part of ongoing conflicts in Colombia, which have intensified amid U.S. actions in Venezuela.
Key Facts
27 members of a rebel group were killed in clashes in Colombia.
The fighting occurred in the Guaviare region, a key area for cocaine production.
The groups involved were factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC).
The clashes were over control of strategic territory.
Nestor Gregorio Vera leads one faction, while Alexander Diaz Mendoza leads the other.
The faction led by Diaz is in peace talks with Colombian President Gustavo Petro.
The Colombian conflict has lasted over 60 years with major impacts, including deaths and displacement.
The situation is tense due to U.S. military actions in neighboring Venezuela.
A woman's video from her dog sitter became popular online because of the funny reaction of a boxer dog. The boxer's intense expression has made people laugh and sparked a discussion about whether dogs can judge humans.
Key Facts
A woman named Kayleigh received a humorous video from her dog sitter.
The video featured Kayleigh's cocker spaniel and a boxer with a funny expression.
The clip became popular on TikTok with more than 106,000 views.
The boxer’s expression in the video led to comments about dogs judging humans.
A 2022 study from Kyoto University suggests dogs can judge human competence.
Female dogs in the study were more likely to approach competent humans.
Iran's president warned that any actions against their supreme leader could lead to a full-scale war, following President Donald Trump’s call for new leadership in Iran. Protests over Iran's economy have reportedly led to thousands of deaths, with conflicting numbers on casualties and detentions. Iranian officials accuse the U.S. and allies of worsening the situation through sanctions and alleged interference.
Key Facts
President Trump called for leadership change in Iran, saying he could strike Iran if protesters were harmed.
Iranian President warned that targeting their supreme leader means starting a "full-scale war."
Protests in Iran began over economic issues and have led to significant unrest.
Reports state that thousands have died due to protests, but exact numbers are unclear.
Iran blames the U.S. and its allies for sanctions that have harmed the Iranian population.
Human Rights groups claim nearly 4,000 people are confirmed dead with many more under investigation for suspected deaths.
Iran's supreme leader recognized the deaths of "several thousand" people during these protests.
In previous protests in 2022 after the death of Mahsa Amini, over 550 people reportedly died.
A couple in Georgia thought they were expecting one baby but were surprised to find out later they were having twins. Initially, they were relieved to learn it was just one baby, but a later ultrasound revealed there were two. The news was shocking, but now they embrace having twin daughters.
Key Facts
A Georgia couple initially believed they were having one baby during early pregnancy.
Emily Richardson shared her story on TikTok about the pregnancy surprise.
At the seven-week ultrasound, only one baby was detected.
The couple had a past concern about twins due to hearing stories of others conceiving twins under similar conditions.
At a 12-week ultrasound, they discovered they were actually expecting twins.
Emily and her husband were shocked and initially worried about handling twins.
Their twin daughters are now healthy, active toddlers.
The couple has embraced the challenge, finding the experience rewarding despite initial fears.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued beach hazard warnings for parts of California and Oregon. The alerts are due to the risk of "sneaker waves" that can unexpectedly surge onto beaches. Beachgoers are advised to stay away from the water and exercise caution.
Key Facts
The NWS has warned both California and Oregon about "sneaker waves."
In California, warnings cover Coastal Del Norte, northern Humboldt coast, southwestern Humboldt counties, and Mendocino coast county.
In Oregon, warnings affect beaches in Douglas, Coos, and Curry counties.
Sneaker waves can appear without warning and move far up the beach, posing danger to people.
These waves can be so strong they can move heavy objects like rocks and logs.
People are advised to avoid rocks and jetties and stay far from the water.
The warnings in California are expected to be in effect from late Monday night to Tuesday evening.
A Miami Beach nightclub apologized after a video showed several influencers, including Andrew Tate and Nick Fuentes, dancing to an antisemitic song by rapper Ye. The club condemned the behavior and emphasized its opposition to hate speech while reviewing how the song got played. The Miami-Dade County mayor also criticized the incident and called for accountability.
Key Facts
A video featured influencers dancing to an antisemitic song by rapper Ye in a Miami Beach club.
The song is titled "Heil Hitler" and includes Nazi references, which led to its ban from major streaming platforms.
The nightclub, Vendôme, apologized and stated it does not support hate speech.
The club is investigating how the song was played and plans to hold relevant parties responsible.
Vendôme's leadership includes members of the Jewish community.
Miami-Dade County's mayor condemned the incident as unacceptable and urged for accountability.
Toogi Dorjbayar, a single mom in Belgium, began walking 20,000 steps a day to improve her mental and physical health. Over eight months, she lost 45 pounds and experienced increased energy without changing her diet. This change also shifted her mindset, giving her a greater sense of control over her body.
Key Facts
Toogi Dorjbayar started walking 20,000 steps a day on March 26 to improve her life.
She made a bet with her sister to keep motivated, with a 200-euro penalty for missed days.
In the first month, she lost about 10 pounds without altering her diet.
By maintaining the routine for eight months, she lost a total of 45 pounds.
Dorjbayar reported feeling more energetic and experienced a mindset change, gaining a sense of control over her body.
Research shows that taking more daily steps is linked with better health and lower risks of death from various causes.
Dorjbayar later adjusted her daily step goal to 15,000 steps to maintain her results.
A 16-year-old girl named Amber from north Wales has a rare condition called cold urticaria, which causes her to break out in hives when exposed to cold temperatures below 12°C (53°F). This condition affects her daily life, making her feel self-conscious and miss social activities. Despite receiving antihistamine injections, she continues to experience symptoms.
Key Facts
Amber Woodward, age 16, has cold urticaria, a rare allergy to cold.
The condition causes hives and swelling when temperatures drop below 12°C (53°F).
Amber has reactions even from a cool wind or cold water from activities like swimming.
Her symptoms make her feel self-conscious and hinder her social life.
She tried medication, but her symptoms remain unchanged.
Amber hopes for more research and effective treatments for her condition.
Cold urticaria can be triggered by cold foods, drinks, or even contact with water.
A Utah mom revealed that her 8-year-old daughter, Tilly, was secretly cast in the final season of "Stranger Things." Tilly played Sara Hopper, a character who died from cancer before the show's events. A TikTok video about her experience went viral.
Key Facts
Tilly Morris, 8, was cast as Sara Hopper in Season 5 of "Stranger Things."
Her involvement was kept secret for a year before being revealed online.
Tilly's mom, Bailee, shared video clips of their time in Atlanta, including costume and make-up sessions.
Tilly's scene was directed by Shawn Levy and included actor David Harbour.
Due to safety concerns with atmospheric haze on set, Tilly's filming time was limited to 30 minutes.
Before the role, Tilly nearly stopped acting but was encouraged to continue by acting in a short film.
Tilly had to balance schoolwork with filming, completing assignments with an on-set tutor.
Oxfam released a report saying that billionaires are gaining more wealth and political influence. The report highlights the growing gap between rich and poor, citing that billionaires' wealth has increased significantly. Oxfam's report coincided with the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, Switzerland.
Key Facts
Oxfam reported that billionaires' collective wealth increased by $2.5 trillion in 2025.
There are now over 3,000 billionaires worldwide, a first-time occurrence.
Elon Musk is noted as the first person with more than half a trillion dollars in wealth.
Billionaires are gaining control over traditional and social media, according to the report.
Oxfam stated billionaires are 4,000 times more likely to hold political office than average citizens.
A survey found nearly half of people believe the wealthy often buy elections.
Oxfam's report was released during the World Economic Forum's annual meeting.
The report mentions 142 significant protests in 68 countries last year related to government policies.
Israeli police are handling a suspected hazardous materials incident at a daycare in Jerusalem. Emergency workers are evacuating the building, focusing on saving several toddlers. People are advised to stay away from the area to let emergency crews work.
Key Facts
Israeli police reported a suspected hazardous materials incident at a daycare in Jerusalem.
Emergency responders are performing lifesaving actions for several toddlers.
Firefighters and police are coordinating to evacuate the building safely.
The public is advised to avoid the area to allow emergency crews to operate.
Roads near the incident should remain clear for emergency vehicles.
The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, stated that the United States prioritizes its power over international law, challenging the UN's principles. He criticized the effectiveness of the UN Security Council and called for its reform. Guterres also highlighted global conflicts and breaches of international law as significant challenges.
Key Facts
UN Secretary-General António Guterres says the U.S. focuses on its power rather than international law.
Guterres believes the UN’s founding principles are under threat.
President Trump criticized the UN, claiming it did not help in ending wars.
The UN struggles to enforce international laws among member countries.
Guterres questioned the effectiveness of quick fixes to global conflicts versus lasting solutions.
He called for reforms in the UN Security Council and limitations on veto powers.
Guterres pointed out ongoing conflicts, such as in Gaza, as key issues for the UN.
His term as UN Secretary-General ends this year, having started in 2017.
Christian Marot began his wildlife filming career after receiving an encouraging letter from Sir David Attenborough. The letter provided feedback on a short wildlife film Marot had sent. Years later, Marot got the opportunity to work with Attenborough on the documentary "Wild London."
Key Facts
Christian Marot sent a wildlife film to Sir David Attenborough at age 19 and received a supportive reply.
The letter included praise and helpful criticism, encouraging Marot to continue his career in nature filming.
Marot used inheritance money to fund a filming trip to Madagascar, inspired by a program about the island.
He developed his skills in nature filming and eventually worked on significant projects.
Marot worked as a principal camera operator for "Wild London," a documentary featuring Sir David Attenborough.
On the set of "Wild London," Marot overcame his nerves when meeting Attenborough, his longtime hero.
Marot's interest in wildlife began at age 12 after watching Attenborough's films and starting his own photography efforts.
Megan Jackson, from Sunderland, has an inoperable brain aneurysm and uses baking as a way to cope with her condition. She started a home bakery in a shed, where customers pay for treats using an honesty box system. The bakery has become a popular local spot, and Megan finds comfort in her baking, which helps manage her stress.
Key Facts
Megan Jackson lives in Hetton-le-Hole, Sunderland.
She has an inoperable brain aneurysm, which is a swollen blood vessel that could burst.
Megan started a home bakery in a shed, using an honesty box for payments.
Baking serves as a way for her to manage stress and cope with her condition.
She is currently on maternity leave and was inspired to bake to support her family.
Hundreds of local people have visited her shed to buy her baked goods.
Megan experiences severe headaches, confusion, and fatigue due to her condition.
Baking allows her a mental escape and provides her with peace.
South Korea has deployed a large ballistic missile known as the "monster" missile. This is a part of its plan to protect itself from North Korea's nuclear threats. The missile can destroy underground bunkers and is being developed to bolster South Korea's defense.
Key Facts
South Korea deployed a ballistic missile called the Hyunmoo-5 as part of its defense strategy.
The missile is 65 feet long and has an 8-ton warhead for destroying underground targets.
South Korea's military strategy involves deterring and striking against North Korea's nuclear threats.
The Hyunmoo-5 missile deployment began late last year and will continue through President Lee Jae Myung's term until 2030.
South Korea cannot own nuclear weapons due to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty but is developing advanced missiles.
Military analyst Joseph Dempsey noted the missile's large warhead size is unprecedented for a conventional missile.
Production of Hyunmoo-5 missiles has started, with South Korea looking to increase production capabilities.
The situation on the Korean Peninsula is influencing regional military developments, potentially involving countries like Japan and China.
Meghan Markle's popularity in the UK has dropped to 19%, with 66% disliking her, according to a recent poll. This comes as she and Prince Harry consider a UK visit, possibly during the summer. Prince Harry also has negative ratings but is viewed more favorably compared to Meghan.
Key Facts
A poll showed 19% of British people like Meghan Markle, while 66% do not.
Meghan was liked by 55% of Brits when she was a working royal.
Prince Harry is liked by 31% and disliked by 60% of Brits.
Prince William is the most popular royal with 77% approval.
King Charles III has a 60% approval rating in the UK.
The couple may visit the UK in summer, depending on Harry's security situation.
Prince Harry is currently in London due to a lawsuit against the Daily Mail.
Prince Harry and several other well-known people are suing the publisher of the Daily Mail in London for allegedly using illegal methods to gather information. The lawsuit claims that this involved phone hacking and other unlawful actions related to 14 articles published from 2001 to 2013. Associated Newspapers, the publisher, denies these accusations.
Key Facts
Prince Harry, along with celebrities like Sir Elton John, is suing Associated Newspapers in London.
They claim the publisher engaged in illegal activities like phone hacking and wiretapping.
The lawsuit focuses on 14 articles published between 2001 and 2013.
Associated Newspapers denies the accusations, calling them unfounded.
This is part of a series of legal battles Harry has had with the media, especially against the Mail.
The trial will last about nine weeks.
The list of claimants includes notable figures such as actress Sadie Frost and activist Baroness Doreen Lawrence.
Prince Harry and several celebrities have taken legal action against the publisher of the Daily Mail, claiming illegal phone hacking and other unlawful tactics. The publisher, Associated Newspapers, denies these claims. The case involves disputed testimony from a former private investigator.
Key Facts
Prince Harry and other celebrities, including Sir Elton John, are suing the publisher of the Daily Mail.
They accuse the publisher of hacking phones and using other illegal reporting methods.
Associated Newspapers, the publisher, rejects these allegations.
A former investigator, Gavin Burrows, allegedly implicated himself in these practices but later claimed that his statement was forged.
Prince Harry has filed multiple lawsuits against media outlets over the years.
This is Prince Harry's last active lawsuit against the Mail group related to similar accusations.
The outcome of the case could impact Prince Harry's public image.
Guatemala's president declared a 30-day state of emergency after gang members took hostages and killed police officers in retaliation for government actions in prisons. The emergency order limits some civil rights and allows security forces to act without court approval. The riots were linked to efforts to restrict gang leaders' privileges, and all hostages have since been freed.
Key Facts
Guatemala's president declared a state of emergency after violence erupted in prisons.
Gang members took at least 46 hostages and killed at least seven police officers.
The state of emergency allows security to arrest or question people without court approval.
Affected areas include three prisons where riots broke out in response to limiting gang leaders' privileges.
Riot control involved police and military raids on the prisons.
Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) gangs were involved in the violence.
Guatemala's Congress classified these gangs as foreign terrorist organizations.
