Reza Pahlavi, the exiled Iranian crown prince, expressed confusion about U.S. President Donald Trump's support for Iranian protesters, as promised action has not materialized despite ongoing protests resulting in thousands of deaths. President Trump stated that U.S. military forces, including the USS Abraham Lincoln and fighter jets, are moving to the Middle East, suggesting preparations for a possible response to the Iranian situation. Iran's leadership has acknowledged the deaths and warned of potential war if the U.S. intervenes in support of protesters.
Key Facts
Reza Pahlavi questioned why President Trump's promised support for Iranian protesters has not been evident.
Protests in Iran have resulted in nearly 4,500 confirmed deaths, with reports of up to 30,000 possible deaths.
The U.S. has deployed military forces to the Middle East, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, as a precaution.
President Trump called Iranian protesters "patriots" and mentioned that "help is on the way."
Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, admitted to the deaths of several thousand people in the protests.
Iran warned that U.S. military intervention could lead to war between the U.S. and Iran.
Pahlavi resides in the U.S. and is the son of the last Iranian shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.
The Abu Amr family in Gaza has been forced to move repeatedly due to the ongoing conflict, ending up in a tent near a garbage dump. They face health issues due to poor living conditions, such as lack of sanitation and exposure to pollution. Health professionals in Gaza warn that the region is experiencing a health crisis due to waste accumulation and limited access to clean water.
Key Facts
The Abu Amr family has been displaced over 17 times because of conflict in Gaza.
They currently live near a garbage dump in Gaza City, struggling with issues like pollution and lack of sanitation.
Family members suffer from illnesses such as asthma and gastroenteritis due to unsanitary conditions.
Basic hygiene is difficult due to the lack of clean water and proximity to waste.
Salem, a family member, mentions health problems from insect bites and contaminated water.
Doctors warn of a health crisis in Gaza due to accumulated waste and sewage issues.
The population in Gaza faces severe challenges in living conditions because of infrastructure damage from the conflict.
The name "Jessica" is being compared to "Karen" as a new stereotype for millennial women exhibiting certain behavior. This new online trend led Gen Z to label "Jessica" as a term for describing demanding or unlikable actions. Many women named Jessica have reacted to this trend, expressing a mix of humor and disagreement.
Key Facts
The term "Karen" is used to describe a stereotype of a demanding middle-aged white woman.
Gen Z coined "Jessica" as the millennial version of "Karen."
The stereotype for "Jessica" includes behavior such as being demanding or tone-deaf.
Jessica Blanc, who identifies as a millennial, joked about the new label on TikTok.
Many named Jessica have reacted on social media, some disagreeing with the label.
The conversation included other suggested names like Ashley and Jennifer as alternatives.
The trend has sparked discussions among millennials about stereotypes and generational differences.
A 21-year-old woman named Emma Warner from the U.K. underwent surgery for varicose veins, which unexpectedly led to severe chronic pain. After exhausting various treatments and researching her symptoms, she believed she had Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and eventually decided to amputate her leg above the knee in hopes of improving her quality of life.
Key Facts
Emma Warner had surgery in 2021 to treat varicose veins.
After the surgery, she experienced extreme and worsening pain in her leg.
Warner was diagnosed with chronic pain, but she did not feel the diagnosis explained all her symptoms.
She believed her symptoms matched those of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).
CRPS is a rare neurological condition causing pain, skin color changes, and sensitivity.
Warner considered amputation as a last resort to manage her condition.
The article discusses alternative dog breeds for people who enjoy the golden retriever's personality but need a smaller pet. It highlights breeds that have similar traits, such as the Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever, cocker spaniels, and miniature goldens.
Key Facts
Golden retrievers are popular due to their loving and loyal nature.
They require a lot of exercise and shed heavily, making them less ideal for apartment living.
The Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever is a smaller retriever breed with similar traits, standing about 18 inches tall.
Cocker spaniels have a similar temperament to golden retrievers but may have health issues requiring regular care.
Miniature goldens are designer crossbreeds created by mixing golden retrievers with smaller dogs.
These alternatives provide the golden retriever personality in smaller, more manageable sizes.
The article discusses internal conflicts within the UK Labour Party, with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham launching a campaign for a by-election, causing tensions with party leader Sir Keir Starmer. Additionally, President Donald Trump retracted a statement about British troops following concerns from King Charles over comments he made about NATO forces.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, announced his intention to run in a by-election.
This decision has sparked a "civil war" within the UK Labour Party, potentially challenging Sir Keir Starmer's leadership.
President Donald Trump praised British troops after initially making comments about NATO forces that caused concern.
King Charles communicated these concerns to the White House, prompting Trump's change in stance.
The article also mentions a warning from a former MI6 head about potential increased aggression from Russia against the UK.
A possible creation of a UK version of the FBI is under discussion, with an announcement expected from the Home Secretary.
Emma Ming Fuller, a 24-year-old woman adopted from China, shared her emotional journey of being abandoned as a baby and later adopted by a family in California. At age 12, she revisited the location in China where she was found, sparking various emotions. Fuller's story highlights the effects of China's historical one-child policy and her personal experiences with identity and belonging.
Key Facts
Emma Ming Fuller was born in Hubei Province, China, on October 10, 2001.
She was abandoned as a baby and found in a basket outside MingShan government buildings.
Fuller was later adopted by a family from Northern California.
China's one-child policy, in effect from 1979 to 2016, led to many similar stories as families faced restrictions on the number of children they could have.
Fuller visited China at age 12 to see where she was found, prompting reflections on her identity.
Her adoption story included learning Mandarin and celebrating Chinese traditions with her adoptive family.
Fuller's TikTok video of her childhood visit to China gained attention online for its emotional impact.
Myanmar is holding the final round of its general election, with a military-backed party expected to secure a significant victory. The voting occurs during a civil war, and several groups have criticized the election process as neither free nor fair. Official results are expected soon, but the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) is leading.
Key Facts
The election is taking place amid a civil war in Myanmar.
The Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) is military-backed and leading in the polls.
The military government allocates itself 166 seats in parliament.
Aung San Suu Kyi's party, the National League for Democracy, has been dissolved.
The election process has faced international criticism for not being free or fair.
Critics say the election is meant to solidify military control.
The military government plans to convene parliament in March and start a new government in April.
ASEAN has not recognized the election due to concerns over fairness.
A grandmother named Deborah Whatley and a mother named Kristen Nelson met through a Facebook group for surrogate grandparents. They formed a close relationship where Deborah acts as a grandparent to Kristen's children. Both families now spend regular time together and have become very important parts of each other's lives.
Key Facts
Deborah Whatley joined a Facebook group for surrogate grandparents in 2019.
Kristen Nelson, who joined the same group in 2018, was seeking parental figures for her children and herself after losing her mother.
The two families connected in August 2024 and have been meeting frequently since then.
The Whatleys live in Huntsville, Alabama, and the Nelsons live in Tyler, Texas, but the travel has not been an issue for them.
The relationship is very supportive and meaningful for both families.
Most friends and family of the Whatleys and Nelsons support their newfound relationship.
Deborah enjoys taking on a grandparent role and has become an important part of Kristen’s family.
The article discusses the growing trend of using lockable pouches to prevent smartphone use at concerts and in schools. Artists like Sir Paul McCartney and organizations in the UK and US are implementing this practice to improve focus and experience by creating phone-free environments.
Key Facts
Sir Paul McCartney used lockable pouches to ensure a phone-free concert in Santa Barbara.
Fans keep their phones in magnetically locked pouches during performances.
Artists like Dave Chappelle and Alicia Keys support the phone-free approach to enhance performances.
Yondr, a company providing lockable pouches, was founded after an incident at a music festival.
Yondr's pouches are used in schools to help students focus and reduce distractions.
About 2.2 million schools in the US have used Yondr pouches, with 250,000 children in England using them.
Lockable pouches cost between £7 and £30 each, depending on the order.
Studies indicated improvements in focus and reductions in bullying in schools using the pouches.
A woman found a camera under a toilet seat in a Leicester restaurant while on a date. The camera was connected to the internet, and police are investigating the incident. No arrests have been made yet, and the restaurant is assisting with the investigation.
Key Facts
A woman discovered a hidden camera in a toilet at a Leicester restaurant.
The incident occurred at the Giggling Squid restaurant between Christmas and New Year.
The woman reported the camera to the staff, who then informed the police.
The camera was connected to the internet and was wrapped in kitchen roll.
Leicestershire Police are investigating, but no suspects have been arrested.
The restaurant is working with police and has advised staff to stay alert.
The Liberal Democrats suggest the UK government introduce "war bonds" to raise £20 billion for defense. These bonds would allow the public to lend money to the government, paying interest similar to standard bonds. The funds would be dedicated to boosting the military and improving the Ministry of Defence's processes.
Key Facts
The Liberal Democrats propose issuing "war bonds" to raise up to £20 billion for UK defense.
War bonds would allow individuals to loan money to the government, with a 2-3 year term and interest similar to regular government bonds.
The UK government is considering such financial instruments, but they must be cost-effective and align with fiscal goals.
Recent events, such as Russia's actions in Ukraine and President Trump's NATO spending criticisms, have increased calls for defense spending.
The current UK Labour government plans to increase defense spending to 2.5% of national income by 2027 and 3.5% by 2035.
Reports indicate a potential £28 billion gap in the UK's defense budget for making the military "war ready."
The proposed bonds would be similar to those used during the World Wars and aim to improve defense procurement processes.
India's Republic Day, held annually on January 26, is celebrated with a grand parade showcasing the country's culture and military strength. This year's event highlights India's focus on its relationship with the European Union by inviting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa as chief guests. The choice of chief guests for the parade often reflects India's foreign policy priorities.
Key Facts
India's Republic Day marks the adoption of the constitution and the country's transition to a republic in 1950.
The Republic Day parade is a major event featuring military displays and cultural presentations held in Delhi.
The chief guests for this year's parade are European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa.
The selection of chief guests is a strategic decision by India's government, reflecting its foreign policy aims and priorities.
The process for selecting the chief guests involves India's foreign ministry and the prime minister's office, focusing on strategic objectives and relationships.
The practice of inviting international leaders began in 1950 with Indonesia's then-president as the first chief guest.
The event has historically featured leaders from various countries, reflecting India's evolving international relations.
Chief guests have included leaders from countries with which India seeks to strengthen strategic ties or showcase diplomatic priorities.
A cosmetic surgeon named Dr. Zayn Khalid Majeed faced criticism after posting a video on TikTok discussing the appearance of singer Troye Sivan. Fans and Sivan himself reacted negatively to the unsolicited advice, leading the doctor to apologize to Sivan and delete the video. Despite the backlash, Majeed plans to continue creating content about celebrity appearances while aiming to promote body positivity.
Key Facts
Dr. Zayn Khalid Majeed posted a video analyzing pop star Troye Sivan's appearance, suggesting cosmetic changes.
The video led to criticism from fans and a response from Sivan about its impact on his body image.
Sivan expressed that the video increased his insecurities and made him consider cosmetic surgery.
Majeed apologized to Sivan and removed the video from his social media.
Sivan stated there were "no hard feelings" after Majeed's apology.
Majeed aims to use his platform to promote positive body image but will still make celebrity analysis videos.
The doctor believes these videos help educate people about cosmetic procedures.
On January 25, Russian forces carried out widespread attacks on Ukraine, impacting areas such as the capital Kyiv and causing significant power outages. Ukrainian officials reported casualties and extensive damage, including to crucial infrastructure. Meanwhile, Ukraine and Russia engaged in talks facilitated by the U.S. in Abu Dhabi, but a peace deal was not reached.
Key Facts
Russian attacks in Ukraine killed at least one person and injured four in Kyiv.
The attacks left 1.2 million properties in Ukraine without power.
Kyiv's northeastern suburb of Troyeshchyna was severely impacted, affecting 600 buildings.
Russia used 375 drones and 21 missiles, including Tsirkon ballistic missiles, in this attack.
In Kharkiv, at least 30 people were injured, and several buildings, including a dormitory and hospitals, were hit.
Ukrainian forces attacked Belgorod in Russia, causing infrastructure damage but no casualties.
Russia claims to have taken control of the village of Starytsya in Ukraine's Kharkiv region.
Ukraine and Russia held talks in Abu Dhabi, but no peace agreement was reached, and further talks are planned.
The article explores how clothing choices influence perceptions among contestants on the reality TV show "The Traitors." Contestants use fashion to project personalities and strategies during the competition. The show has gained attention for its fashionable styles, becoming a key part of its appeal.
Key Facts
"The Traitors" is a reality TV show where contestants' clothing choices impact how others perceive them.
Clothing styles can convey character traits like trustworthiness or confidence.
Fashion has become an important attraction of the show, with contestants using it strategically.
Contestant Stephen wore flamboyant outfits to divert attention from his facial expressions.
Bright colors and playful textures in outfits can project innocence or openness.
Contestant Fiona dressed in soft clothing to appear nurturing and non-threatening.
Red clothing is associated with confidence and seriousness by the show's stylists.
High-profile celebrities like Harry Styles have worn similar fashion pieces showcased in the show.
Parents of children treated for cancer at a hospital in Glasgow, Scotland, fought for years to prove that infections were linked to the hospital's water and ventilation systems. Recently, the health board admitted the hospital's environment likely caused some infections. This admission followed a long inquiry and was welcomed but also frustrated parents.
Key Facts
Parents believed infections were due to unsafe conditions at Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.
The health board now agrees the water system likely caused some infections.
The hospital opened in 2015 but was not fully ready.
There was pressure to complete the hospital project quickly.
Maintenance in the hospital's early years was lacking.
Infection control doctors who spoke out were poorly treated.
The health board's admissions came after a six-year inquiry.
Parents feel the admissions are too late and remain upset.
Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the UK's Conservative Party, joined the party initially for socializing and met her husband there. She became leader in 2024 after a major election loss. Since taking over, her party has struggled in polls and elections.
Key Facts
Kemi Badenoch is the leader of the Conservative Party in the UK since 2024.
She joined the Conservative Party primarily for social activities.
Badenoch became leader after a significant defeat in a general election.
Three high-profile Conservative members, including Robert Jenrick, recently left the party to join Reform UK.
Her party has been overtaken in the polls by Reform UK and faced losses in the 2025 local elections.
Badenoch insists she has a long-term plan to regain voter support.
Her musical preferences include songs from the musical Hamilton and Baz Luhrmann's spoken word piece "Everybody's Free (To Wear Sunscreen)."
Badenoch started her parliamentary career by winning the Saffron Walden seat in 2017.
The article discusses the challenges faced by middle powers as the world seems to move towards an international order similar to the period before World War II. It highlights the role of the United States in shaping post-World War II Western Europe and contrasts different perspectives on American power. The piece also references a recent call for middle powers to collaborate, made by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at a global conference.
Key Facts
The article reflects on how the world might be returning to a pre-World War II style political order.
The United States played a significant role in post-World War II Europe, contributing to peace and prosperity.
The Marshall Plan was a U.S. initiative to help rebuild European economies after World War II.
A young Pakistani student compared the U.S. to Imperial Rome, noting that American power feels different abroad than it does domestically.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighted the need for middle powers to work together.
The article suggests that the benefits of the current international order have not been equally distributed globally.
The piece includes reflections from individuals who witnessed major historical shifts, such as the fall of communist regimes in Eastern Europe.
President Donald Trump praised UK soldiers following remarks he made about European troops in Afghanistan, which caused tension with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Trump recognized the sacrifices of 457 UK soldiers killed in Afghanistan. Other European leaders also reacted strongly to Trump's comments.
Key Facts
President Trump praised UK soldiers for their bravery in Afghanistan.
Trump made comments suggesting European troops stayed away from the front lines in Afghanistan.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized Trump’s statements, calling them "insulting."
Trump’s remarks led to reactions from other European leaders, including those from Italy, Poland, and France.
Trump's social media post mentioned the 457 UK soldiers who died in Afghanistan.
The conflict in Afghanistan involved troops from many NATO countries, each of whom experienced casualties.
Trump and Starmer discussed the issue after Trump's comments and Starmer highlighted the sacrifices of soldiers.
Around 2,400 US soldiers and many soldiers from NATO countries lost their lives in Afghanistan from 2001 onward.
