Iran's top prosecutor denied President Donald Trump's claim that he stopped Iran from executing 837 protesters. The U.S. has sent warships to the Middle East, potentially ready to respond to Iran's actions against demonstrators. Over 5,000 protesters have died during the unrest, with Iran reportedly pausing executions after Trump's intervention.
Key Facts
Iran's prosecutor said Trump's claim about halting 837 executions is false.
The U.S. sent military ships to the Middle East as tensions with Iran grow.
President Trump warned Iran against executing protesters during mass demonstrations.
More than 5,000 protesters have died in the unrest, according to human rights groups.
Trump stated the U.S. moves are precautionary, observing Iran's actions.
Iran reportedly paused executions after Trump's comments and pressure.
The Tigray region in northern Ethiopia is facing severe hunger and a lack of humanitarian aid. Cuts in US aid, especially those from USAID, have worsened the situation, affecting millions of people who need emergency help.
Key Facts
Many people in Tigray, Ethiopia, are suffering from severe hunger.
Humanitarian aid in Tigray has decreased due to cuts in funding, specifically from the US Agency for International Development (USAID).
USAID used to be a major source of humanitarian aid for Ethiopia but reduced support when President Donald Trump took office.
Up to 80% of Tigray's population needs emergency aid, according to organizations like the World Food Programme (WFP).
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has noted that US aid cuts have worsened health and humanitarian situations worldwide.
Funding cuts have pressured humanitarian organizations to reduce their activities, limiting access to essential services like medical care and clean water.
The conflict in Tigray began in 2020 and ended in 2022, but many displaced individuals have not returned to their homes.
The region struggles with inadequate public health systems due to reduced donor funding.
Japanese fighter jets intercepted several Russian military aircraft, including bombers that can carry nuclear weapons, as they approached Japan's airspace over the Sea of Japan. Russia stated these flights followed international rules, and Japan responded by preparing to defend its airspace. This event adds to ongoing tensions between Russia and Japan, partly due to disputed islands and military activities in the region.
Key Facts
Japan intercepted Russian aircraft near its airspace over the Sea of Japan.
The aircraft included Tu-95MS bombers, which can carry nuclear weapons.
Russia conducted the flight in neutral waters, according to their Defense Ministry.
Japanese Defense Minister expressed strong defense concerns about the activity.
Japan and Russia have ongoing disputes over the Kuril Islands.
Japan hosts about 60,000 U.S. troops and military equipment, which concerns Russia.
Russian and Chinese coordination in the region has raised regional defense concerns.
Japan's Air Self-Defense Force remains on high alert to protect airspace.
A video circulating on social media captured the kidnapping of U.S. influencer Nicole Pardo Molina in Culiacán, Mexico. The event took place as masked men forcibly took her from a shopping plaza, and authorities are investigating possible cartel connections.
Key Facts
A video shared online shows the kidnapping of influencer Nicole Pardo Molina in Culiacán, Mexico.
The incident occurred at a shopping plaza around 4 p.m. on a Tuesday.
Two masked men abducted her and put her in a white Toyota Corolla.
The kidnapping was recorded by cameras inside her Tesla Cybertruck.
Culiacán is located in Sinaloa, a state known for drug cartel activity.
Authorities in Sinaloa have initiated a search protocol to locate Pardo Molina.
Her kidnapping may be linked to cartel factions, as she sold items referencing cartel figures.
Pardo Molina, also called La Nicholette, is active on social media with over 180,000 followers.
Three legal groups from Australia and Palestine are asking the Australian Federal Police to investigate Israeli President Isaac Herzog. They claim that he has been involved in serious crimes in connection with Israel's actions in Gaza. This request comes as President Herzog is expected to visit Australia soon.
Key Facts
Australian and Palestinian legal groups want a police investigation into Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
The request is based on accusations of incitement to genocide and other serious crimes in Gaza.
These groups sent a detailed submission to the police and cited international and domestic legal obligations.
President Herzog is expected to visit Sydney in February as part of an invitation from Australia's Prime Minister.
The visit follows a mass shooting at Bondi Beach that killed 15 people.
Some community leaders in Australia express concerns that Herzog's visit may increase tensions.
Australia's parliament has passed stricter gun and hate speech laws after the Bondi Beach attack.
President Donald Trump's Middle East advisor, Jared Kushner, showed new plans for rebuilding Gaza at the World Economic Forum. The plans include modern buildings along the waterfront to appeal to tourists. Trump also started a new board to help keep peace and rebuild Gaza after conflicts.
Key Facts
President Trump's advisor, Jared Kushner, presented plans for Gaza at the World Economic Forum.
The plans include luxury high-rise buildings to attract tourists.
Gaza's cities have been heavily damaged after ongoing conflicts.
Kushner mentioned that cities with millions of people can be built in a few years in the Middle East.
President Trump launched a "Board of Peace" to help maintain ceasefire and reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
President Donald Trump announced that a large naval force is heading toward Iran. This comes as a warning to Iran's leaders who are facing significant protests. The U.S. is increasing its military presence in the Middle East, including the deployment of an aircraft carrier.
Key Facts
President Trump said a large fleet is moving toward Iran as a precaution.
This move follows Trump's warning to Iran about continuing violence against protestors.
The U.S. is sending the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln with other ships to the region.
The protests in Iran began due to economic issues and have led to many deaths.
Trump stated he prefers not to use military force but is closely monitoring the situation.
More U.S. military resources, like air defense systems, may be deployed to protect American bases.
Trump mentioned being open to negotiations with Iran while planning tariffs for trading countries.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has dissolved the country's parliament, making way for a new election scheduled for February 8. This move starts a 12-day campaign period as Takaichi aims to use her popularity to strengthen her party's position.
Key Facts
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi dissolved Japan's parliament.
The snap election is set for February 8.
The 465-member lower house of parliament was officially dissolved.
Takaichi is Japan's first female prime minister, elected in October.
She has been in office for three months with a 70% approval rating.
Takaichi aims to boost her party's support, which has seen recent declines.
Her coalition holds a slim majority in the lower chamber.
Key election issues include rising consumer prices and security concerns with China.
British actor Delroy Lindo was nominated for his first Oscar while in bed, receiving the news from his son. He is up for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the horror film "Sinners." He and fellow British actor Wunni Mosaku are the only UK actors nominated this year.
Key Facts
Delroy Lindo is a British actor nominated for his first Oscar.
He received the nomination news from his son while he was in bed.
Lindo is nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the film "Sinners."
He is 73 years old and was born in London.
Wunni Mosaku and Lindo are the only British actors nominated for Oscars this year.
A major winter storm is impacting 19 U.S. states with heavy snowfall, ice, and cold temperatures. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for areas from the Southern Plains to the Great Lakes and Appalachians. Travel disruption and power outages are expected due to snow and ice accumulation.
Key Facts
The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings in 19 states.
Up to 17 inches of snow is expected in some regions.
Affected states include Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, and Illinois.
In Pennsylvania, up to 17 inches of snow is forecasted, with warnings in effect through Monday.
West Virginia could see 14 inches of snow in higher areas, causing challenging road conditions.
Kansas and Texas face both heavy snow and significant ice, with power outages anticipated.
Colorado and New Mexico expect heavy snowfall in high altitudes, with New Mexico experiencing dangerous wind chills.
The public is advised to prepare for travel disruptions and potential power failures due to weather conditions.
The United States is getting Misawa Air Base in Japan ready to host new stealth fighter jets called F-35A. This move is part of a broader plan to update military capabilities in the region to respond to potential threats, particularly from China, Russia, and North Korea. The base is preparing for the arrival by receiving support equipment and conducting routine operations with existing jets.
Key Facts
Misawa Air Base in Japan is being prepared to host 48 F-35A stealth jets.
These F-35A jets are set to replace 36 older F-16 jets at the base.
The F-35A jets are capable of evading radar detection.
Japan is an important ally for the U.S. in the western Pacific region.
The base is currently working with the 35th Fighter Wing in preparation for the new jets.
The U.S. Air Force released images showing preparations for the jets' arrival.
The upgrade is part of a U.S. military strategy to increase regional defense.
The U.S. continues to strengthen its military partnership with Japan.
President Donald Trump announced that a large group of U.S. Navy ships, including an aircraft carrier, is heading to the Gulf region due to concerns about Iran. He stated that the U.S. is closely watching Iran and hopes to avoid conflict but is prepared if necessary. The move follows reports that Iran may have executed protesters, which Tehran denies, and concerns about Iran's nuclear program.
Key Facts
President Trump said a U.S. naval group is moving towards the Gulf region with Iran in focus.
The movement includes the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and other vessels.
Trump emphasized a desire to avoid conflict with Iran but stated the U.S. is prepared for any situation.
Reports suggest the U.S. military movement followed claims of Iran executing protesters.
Iranian officials denied any execution plans linked to recent protests.
President Trump mentioned that the U.S. would respond if Iran resumes its nuclear program.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned the U.S. of a strong response if Iran is attacked.
The U.S. previously carried out airstrikes on Iran's nuclear facilities in 2025 during a conflict with Israel.
A 12-year-old cat named Pippa, who ended up in a shelter after her owner died, has been adopted. Both Pippa and her new owner are dealing with grief, as the owner is mourning a personal loss. The story of Pippa's adoption and its emotional connections went viral online.
Key Facts
Pippa is a 12-year-old tortoiseshell cat found in a shelter with a note that said she was "sad and scared."
Pippa ended up in the shelter because her owner passed away and had no family to take her.
Pippa's new owner, who shared the adoption story on Reddit, is also grieving a loss.
The Reddit post about Pippa quickly became popular, gaining 45,000 upvotes.
Research from Maynooth University shows that losing a pet can cause grief similar to losing a person.
After 24 hours with her new owner, Pippa seemed to be adjusting well.
Online commenters expressed empathy and support for both Pippa and her new owner.
President Trump withdrew an invitation for Canada to join the Board of Peace, a new international group intended to resolve conflicts. Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney had initially shown interest in joining but criticized the US-led world order and declined to pay membership fees. Trump did not provide a specific reason for revoking the invitation.
Key Facts
President Trump invited Canada to join the Board of Peace but later withdrew the invitation.
The Board of Peace is a new group under Trump's leadership aimed at settling international conflicts.
Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada previously criticized the US-led global order.
Canada refused to pay fees to join the Board of Peace.
Trump did not state why he withdrew Canada’s invitation.
Over 60 countries were invited to join the board, with about 35 already agreeing to participate.
The UK's participation is on hold due to concerns over Russia's involvement.
The Board of Peace does not specifically mention the Israel-Hamas conflict, despite initial thoughts.
A landslide hit a campsite in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand, leaving six people missing, including two teenagers. Heavy rain has caused multiple landslides on New Zealand's North Island, leading to fatalities and ongoing search efforts. Authorities are looking for more missing individuals, while dangerous weather conditions continue.
Key Facts
A landslide occurred at a popular campsite in Mount Maunganui, North Island, New Zealand.
Six people are missing, including two teenagers, with the youngest being 15 years old.
Another landslide in Welcome Bay resulted in the deaths of a grandmother and her grandchild.
Intense rain has caused these landslides, affecting parts of the North Island for several days.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon visited the sites and praised community support despite ongoing challenges.
Dangerous weather, including thunderstorms and strong winds, is forecasted for the weekend in affected areas.
Police are looking for information on three more people who might have been at the campsite.
Rescuers are actively searching the area, and no new signs of life have been found so far.
President Donald Trump stated in Davos, Switzerland, that he wanted the U.S. to acquire Greenland, citing its strategic location. He claimed that the U.S. had given Greenland back to Denmark after World War II, although Greenland was never officially owned by the U.S. Trump mistakenly mentioned Iceland instead of Greenland multiple times during his speech.
Key Facts
President Trump expressed interest in acquiring Greenland for its strategic position.
Trump confirmed that the U.S. would not use force to acquire the land.
During World War II, the U.S. defended Greenland after Germany invaded Denmark.
Greenland has remained a part of Denmark and has not been owned by the U.S.
In 1953, Greenland was incorporated into Denmark and gained representation in the Danish Parliament.
Trump confused Greenland with Iceland several times in his speech.
Greenland is a territory within Denmark, with its own parliament and growing autonomy.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. envoys recently held talks in Moscow about the war in Ukraine. Russia is urging for Ukrainian territorial concessions to resolve the conflict, but Ukraine opposes giving up land while it remains under martial law. The U.S., Russia, and Ukraine are set to continue discussions in Abu Dhabi.
Key Facts
Russia wants Ukraine to hand over more of the Donbas region.
Ukraine must hold a referendum to give up territory, but can't do that under martial law.
Talks between Russia and the U.S. were described as "extremely frank" and focused on territorial issues.
Upcoming discussions between the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine will take place in Abu Dhabi.
Ukrainian President Zelensky met with President Trump, emphasizing the need for compromises.
European allies support Ukraine's stance against rewarding Russia for its actions.
The talks in Moscow lasted about four hours, with a focus on resolving the conflict diplomatically.
The BBC apologised to Jack Murley, a former radio presenter, after an internal investigation revealed he suffered from homophobic abuse at work. Murley, dismissed from BBC Radio Cornwall, claimed he faced discrimination, but an employment tribunal ruled his firing was not due to his sexuality. The BBC acknowledged the abuse but did not find grounds for financial compensation.
Key Facts
The BBC apologised to Jack Murley for not acting on reported homophobic abuse.
Murley was dismissed from BBC Radio Cornwall in 2024 for breaching guidelines.
An employment tribunal found his dismissal was reasonable, unrelated to his sexuality.
Murley alleged he faced name-calling and was asked to sound "less gay" on air.
An internal report confirmed a "case to answer" in eight out of twelve abuse allegations.
Murley received offensive remarks and homophobic messages from colleagues and listeners.
The BBC said it is working to improve workplace culture and accepted the investigation's findings.
Murley thanked colleagues who supported him and hoped for change in BBC's management.
There are plans to build a national monument for the late Queen Elizabeth II in St James's Park, London. The monument will include a statue of her standing, not on horseback, as part of a larger memorial design near Buckingham Palace. The final design will be revealed in April 2026 to mark the Queen's centenary.
Key Facts
The statue will show Queen Elizabeth II standing, not riding a horse, as previously shown in illustrations.
The memorial will have three statues and a bridge with a glass decoration shaped like a tiara.
Karen Newman, who made waxworks at Madame Tussauds, will create a smaller sculpture for the memorial.
The main statue will be near Marlborough Gate in St James's Park, close to other monuments of her parents.
King Charles has been consulted on the memorial plans.
Martin Jennings is designing the main statue to emphasize the Queen's role as head of state.
The total budget for the project is estimated between £23 million and £46 million.
The anti-monarchy group, Republic, has criticized the project cost, suggesting the royals should pay for it.
An investigation found hundreds of illegal waste dump sites in England, including 11 very large ones. Despite efforts to close these dumps, many are still in operation, posing environmental and safety risks. Organized crime groups often run these sites, making money by offering cheap waste disposal.
Key Facts
Over 700 illegal waste sites were shut down in England during 2024/25.
As of the end of the last year, 517 illegal waste dumps were still active.
These dumps include 11 large sites, with one in Cheshire holding 280,000 tonnes of waste.
Many of these sites are located in rural areas, often on agricultural land.
Organized crime gangs run many sites, charging lower prices for waste disposal.
Fires and pollution are common problems at these illegal sites, affecting local environments and communities.
The Environment Agency is investigating and taking action against illegal waste activities.
Residents near sites report ongoing issues and feel response efforts are insufficient.
