In-focus

Two men killed as devastating snowstorm wreaks havoc in Russia's eastern region of Kamchatka

Continuous and unprecedented snowfall for the last two days has buried the entire peninsula under more than two to four meters of snow

Blast at Chinese restaurant in Kabul kills 7

Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran said the explosion occurred at the Chinese Noodle restaurant, which he said mainly served Chinese Muslims

EU leaders take stage in Davos as Trump rocks global order

Trump is set to dominate the week at the Swiss ski resort. European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen and French President Emmanuel Macron will address the forum on Tuesday,

100 vehicles pile up in Michigan crash as snowstorm moves across the country

The massive pileup prompted the Michigan State Police to close both directions of Interstate 196 on Monday morning just southwest of Grand Rapids while officials worked to remove all the vehicles

Syria says 120 Islamic State detainees escaped prison; Kurdish website said 1,500 escaped

The Syrian ministry said security forces had recaptured 81 of the escapees after search and sweep operations in the town and surrounding areas, with efforts continuing to arrest the remaining fugitive

'Content to die': Afghanistan's hunger crisis worsened by winter, aid cuts

As winter spreads across Afghanistan's arid landscape, work opportunities have dried up, while the wave of returning Afghans has swelled the population by a tenth, said WFP's country director Aylieff

A year into his return, Trump wields executive power with few restraints

He remains a deeply unpopular figure: a growing number of Americans are unhappy with his handling of the economy and have concerns about his priorities. But opinions are deeply polarized

Iran warns protesters who joined 'riots' to surrender

But the government also pledged to tackle economic hardships that sparked the demonstrations, which were met with a crackdown that rights groups say has left thousands dead.

Trump to charge $1bn for permanent 'peace board' membership

US President Donald Trump's government has asked countries to pay $1.0 billion for a permanent spot on his "Board of Peace" aimed at resolving conflicts.

Syrian army deploys in former Kurdish-held areas under ceasefire deal

Syria's army deployed in formerly Kurdish-led areas in the country's east and north on Monday after a ceasefire announced a day earlier.

Yemen humanitarian crisis set to worsen in 2026: UN

The humanitarian crisis in Yemen is set to get much worse in 2026 as food insecurity increases and international aid evaporates, the United Nations warned.

Stop 'appeasing' bully Trump, Amnesty chief tells Europe

"We need much more resistance," Amnesty secretary general Agnes Callamard said in an interview on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland

Trump ties his stance on Greenland to not getting Nobel Peace Prize, European officials say

The Norwegian Nobel Committee is an independent body whose five members are appointed by the Norwegian Parliament.

Army returns to strategic east Congo town after rebel withdrawal

US has hosted talks between Congo and Rwanda, while Qatar has hosted separate talks between Congo and M23

Canada could send small contingent of troops to Greenland, says source

Military officials have presented plans for the operation to the government

Top US Catholic cardinals question morality of American foreign policy

Pope Leo has previously criticized some of US President Donald Trump's policies

China's population drops for fourth year as fewer babies born

China's population has been shrinking since 2022

At least 39 dead in Spain after two high-speed trains collide

Spain’s worst rail disaster since 2013 leaves at least 39 dead and 122 injured after a high-speed train derails and collides with an oncoming train.

Hackers target Iran state TV's satellite transmission to broadcast exiled crown prince

A statement from Pahlavi’s office acknowledged the disruption that showed the crown prince. It did not respond to questions from The Associated Press about the hack.

Starmer says a trade war is in no one's interest after Trump's Greenland tariff threat

Starmer says a trade war is in no one’s interest after Trump’s Greenland tariff threat

Several killed in blast in Afghan capital Kabul: Taliban interior ministry

Blast took place in Shahr-e-Naw area, home to foreigners and considered one of most secure areas in capital

Putin receives US invitation to join Gaza Peace Council

He said that Moscow is currently reviewing all the details of this offer and will soon contact the US to seek clarification

Japan PM to call snap election seeking stronger mandate

The country's first woman leader, Takaichi is banking on her high poll numbers to lead the unpopular ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to victory

Lawyer files impeachment complaint against Philippine President Marcos

The complaint, filed by Andre De Jesus, described the move against Duterte as an act of "kidnapping," echoing the narrative of the former president's family

Indonesia's Prabowo nominates nephew as central bank deputy governor, sources say

Investors have worried that independent monetary policymaking in Southeast Asia's largest economy might be under pressure as Prabowo targets economic growth of 8% by 2029, from about 5% now

Russian army is 30 km away from Ukrainian city of Sloviansk,

DPR head Denis Pushilin said that after gaining control of the Zakotnoye area, Russian forces are closing in on Sloviansk, while heavy fighting continues on the Grishino and Beletskoye fronts

EU scrambles to avert Trump Greenland tariffs, prepares retaliation

EU leaders are set to discuss options at an emergency summit in Brussels on Thursday. One option is a package of tariffs on $107.7 billion of US imports that could automatically kick in on February 6

Billionaires' wealth hits new peak as their clout grows, Oxfam says

In a report timed for the opening of the World Economic ‌Forum in Davos, the charity said the fortunes of global billionaires jumped 16% in 2025 to $18.3 trillion, extending an 81% rise since 2020

World leaders show caution on Trump's broader 'Board of Peace' amid fears for UN

Only Hungary, whose leader is a close Trump ally, gave an unequivocal acceptance in response to the invitations, which have been addressed to some 60 nations and began arriving in European capitals

Iran warns against any US strike as judiciary hints at unrest-linked executions

Iran's protests, sparked last month in Tehran's Grand Bazaar over economic grievances, swiftly turned political and spread nationwide, calling for the end of clerical rule

Chile declares state of catastrophe as wildfires force thousands to flee

Fire has consumed nearly 8,500 hectares (21,000 acres) in the two regions so far

Uganda partially restores internet after ageing president wins seventh term

Museveni's latest win means he will have been in power for nearly half a century when his new term ends in 2031

Portugal votes in tight presidential race with far right poised to reach runoff

Around 11 million voters are eligible to cast ballots

World markets face fresh jolt as Trump vows tariffs on Europe over Greenland

Trump said he would impose tariffs on Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Finland and Britain

Tight security in Switzerland's Davos ahead of WEF attended by Trump

United States President Donald Trump is expected to attend the annual meeting of the global elite, which opens on Monday

Israeli troops kill Palestinians for crossing a vague ceasefire line that's sometimes unmarked

Of the 447 Palestinians killed between the ceasefire taking effect and Tuesday, at least 77 were killed by Israeli gunfire near the line, including 62 who crossed it, said Gaza Health Ministry

Iranian official says verified deaths in Iran protests reaches at least 5,000

"The final toll is not expected to increase sharply," the official said, adding that "Israel and armed groups abroad" had supported and equipped those taking to the streets

Anti-ICE demonstrators chase off outnumbered far-right activists at Minneapolis rally

About an hour after the rallies began, the tiny contingent of right-wing activists quickly walked a few blocks away to a hotel, hounded by hundreds of anti-ICE protesters. A few scuffles broke out

Indonesian authorities find wreckage of missing surveillance plane with 11 on board

There were eight crew members and three passengers on board the plane, which was chartered by Indonesia's Marine Affairs and Fisheries Ministry to conduct air surveillance on fisheries

Spanish PM Sanchez says US invasion of Greenland 'would make Putin happiest man on earth'

Sanchez said any military action by the US against Denmark's vast Arctic island would damage NATO and legitimize the invasion of Ukraine by Russia

Pentagon readies 1,500 soldiers to possibly deploy to Minnesota, Washington Post reports

The Army placed the units on prepare-to-deploy orders in case violence in the state escalates, the Washington Post report said

Whistles and walkie-talkies: Minneapolis keeps guard over schools amid ICE arrests

The Trump administration has deployed about 3,000 federal agents across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, making it the latest region targeted by the president's mass deportation programme

Syrian army continues advance against Kurdish-held towns despite US calls against it

State media said the army took over the northern city of Tabqa and its adjacent dam, as well as the major Freedom dam, formerly known as the Baath, west of the Syrian city of Raqaa

EU warns of downward spiral after Trump threatens tariffs over Greenland

"Tariffs would undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral. Europe will remain united, coordinated, and committed to upholding its sovereignty," EC President said

Trump wants nations to pay $1 billion to stay on his peace board, report says

US President Trump would serve as its inaugural chairman and each member state shall serve a term of no more than three years from this charter's entry into force, subject to renewal by the chairman

Israel says US Gaza executive board composition against its policy

The statement did not specify what part of the board's composition contradicted Israeli policy. It said Foreign Minister Gideon Saar would raise the issue with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio

Iraq takes full control of air base after US withdrawal, defence ministry says

Ain al-Asad has hosted US and coalition troops for years and has been repeatedly targeted by Iran-backed groups

Uganda's Museveni wins re-election, opposition leader at large

The result hands the 81-year-old Museveni the decisive victory he sought to bolster his political position

Protesters in Denmark support Greenland after Trump's takeover threat

Trump says Greenland is vital to US security because of its strategic location

President Trump invites Turkish, Egyptian counterparts to join Gaza 'Board of Peace'

The proposed board is expected to supervise Gaza during a transitional phase following a fragile ceasefire

Iran's leader Khamenei blames Trump for inciting deadly protests

The protests erupted on December 28 over economic hardship and swelled into widespread demonstrations

Death toll in Iran protests over 3,000, rights group says

The U.S.-based HRANA group said it had verified 3,090 deaths, including 2,885 protesters

U.S. judge orders curbs on immigration agents' conduct toward Minnesota protesters

U.S. District Judge issued an injunction barring federal agents from retaliating against individuals engaged in peaceful, unobstructive protest activity.

Trump threatens tariffs on nations that don't back Greenland takeover

Trump said Friday he may slap trade tariffs on countries that don't support his plans to take over Greenland, part of the territory of NATO ally Denmark.

'Nothing's changed' in Gaza as US peace deal enters second phase

Though Israeli strikes have been less intense since the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel began in October 2025, bombs still fall every day.

Syrian president declares Kurdish a national language

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa issued a decree on Friday declaring Kurdish a "national language", in an apparent gesture of good will towards the minority following clashes in recent days.

US congress members visit Denmark to support Greenland

A bipartisan US Congress delegation visited Copenhagen on Friday to voice support for Denmark and Greenland.

At least seven killed in Uganda violence, Museveni dominates election results

The election has been widely seen as a test of the 81-year-old Museveni's political strength

CIA director Ratcliffe meets with Venezuela's Rodriguez in Caracas

John Ratcliffe met with Delcy Rodriguez at the direction of President Donald Trump

UK navy launches new crewless helicopter to counter North Atlantic threats

Europe's defence sector has been reshaped since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022

Ukrainian team heading to US for security guarantees talks, Zelenskiy says

Ukrainian officials have said the country will need $800 billion for its post-war reconstruction

Iran protests abate after deadly crackdown, residents and rights group say

Saudi Arabia and Qatar conducted intense diplomacy with Washington to prevent a US strike

Trump says he supports transitional Palestinian panel in Gaza

Israel and Hamas have accused each other of ceasefire violations in Gaza

Afghan mothers seek hospital help for malnourished children

John Aylieff, Afghanistan director at the World Food Programme (WFP), said women are "sacrificing their own health and their own nutrition to feed their children"

Israel sees spike in PTSD and suicide among troops as war persists

Recent reports by the Defence Ministry and by health providers have detailed the military's mental health crisis, which comes as fighting persists in Gaza and Lebanon and as tensions flare with Iran

Putin and Netanyahu discuss Iran by phone, Kremlin says

Putin offered Netanyahu Russia's help in mediating in regards to Iran, and told him he was "in favour of intensifying political and diplomatic efforts to ensure stability and security in the region"

US lawmakers arrive in Copenhagen to counter Trump's Greenland threats

The 11-member US delegation, led by Democratic Senator Chris Coons, was scheduled to meet Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and her Greenlandic counterpart Jens-Frederik Nielsen

A South Korean court sentences Yoon to 5 years in prison on charges related to martial law decree

Yoon was impeached, arrested and dismissed as president after his short-lived imposition of martial law in December 2024 triggered huge public protests calling for his ouster.

Putin calls for rebuilding global security framework on new foundations

He criticised the rise of unilateral, power-driven actions worldwide and stressed that diplomacy, dialogue, and compromise are being sidelined

Seahawks QB Sam Darnold injures oblique in practice but is confident he'll play vs. 49ers

Darnold said he felt something in his oblique while throwing passes to receivers with no defenders.

NCAA basketball players and gamblers are charged for allegedly rigging games

Calling it an “international criminal conspiracy,” U.S. Attorney David Metcalf told reporters in Philadelphia that this case represents a “significant corruption of the integrity of sports.”

Kyle Tucker agrees to a $240 million, 4-year contract with the World Series champion Dodgers

Tucker’s $60 million average annual value would be the second-highest in baseball history, without factoring in deferred money, behind Shohei Ohtani’s $70 million in his 10-year deal with the Dodgers

Russia criticises 'illegal regime change' attempts in Iran

She said that Western pressure was not limited to the United States and Israel, but that European Union countries were also exerting economic, social, and humanitarian pressure on Iran

Kathleen Kennedy, steward of 'Star Wars,' steps down from Lucasfilm

Kennedy, Lucas’ handpicked successor, had presided over the ever-expanding science-fiction world of “Star Wars” since Disney acquired it in 2012.

Power outage halts Tokyo commuter train lines, disrupting thousands

Trains on East Japan Railway's Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku lines were halted in all directions with no timetable for resumption, the railway said

Trump threatens to use military over Minnesota anti-ICE protests

Confrontations between residents and federal officers have become increasingly tense after an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent fatally shot a US citizen, Renee Good, in a car eight days ago

Canada, China set for 'historic' gains from new partnership, Carney says

The first Canadian prime minister to visit China since 2017, Carney was on a mission to rebuild ties with Canada's second-largest trading partner after the US, following months of diplomatic efforts

Afghan man goes on trial over deadly Munich car-ramming

The suspect, partially identified as Farhad N., faces two charges of murder and 44 of attempted murder, with prosecutors saying he acted out of a "religious motivation" and expected to die in attack

US tells UN all options on table, Iran warns it will respond to any aggression

Trump has repeatedly threatened to intervene in support of protesters in Iran. But on Thursday, Trump adopted a wait‑and‑see posture, saying he had been told that the killings were easing

Trump accepts Nobel medal from Venezuelan opposition leader Machado

In a social media post on Thursday evening, Trump wrote: "Maria presented me with her Nobel Peace Prize for the work I have done. Such a wonderful gesture of mutual respect. Thank you Maria!"

Israel kills 10 in Gaza as US declares phase two of ceasefire deal launched

Israeli forces carry out various attacks across the war-torn enclave, including hits on family homes in Deir el-Balah.

Israel says conducting strikes in Lebanon, issues evacuation orders

The Israeli military say they conducted the strikes due to Hezbollah's violations of the ceasefire agreement.

Trump convinced 'to give Iran a chance' after threats over protest crackdown

Gulf allies have convinced Donald Trump to "give Iran a chance", a Saudi official said on Thursday, after the US leader repeatedly threatened strikes on the Islamic republic.

Threats to Iran spike 'volatility': UN official

A senior UN official warned on Thursday that threats of military action against Iran, like those made by US President Donald Trump, increased "volatility" in the protest-torn country.

Europeans send troops to Greenland as Trump presses claim

Greenland and Denmark said they have begun to increase their military presence in and around Greenland in cooperation with NATO allies.

Astronauts return to Earth from space after health issue

NASA has declined to identify the affected crew member or disclose the nature of the condition, citing medical privacy.

Palestinian writer threatens legal action against Australian politician for linking her to 'Bondi atrocity'

The uproar began when the board of the Adelaide Festival, which runs the Adelaide Writers Week, announced on 8 January they disinvited Ms Abdel-Fattah from the programme

UAE and Iran hold high-level phone call as regional security tops agenda

UAE and Iran confirm a phone call focused on regional security and bilateral ties, with no military or war discussions involved.

Kremlin says US must consider all western nuclear stockpiles, not just China

Kremlin says any new US-led arms control deal must consider all Western nuclear stockpiles, including Britain and France, not just China, as New START nears expiry.

US imposes fresh sanctions on Iran over crackdown on protesters

The unrest in Iran started with protests over soaring prices

European airlines continue to avoid Iran and Iraq despite airspace reopening

Iran closed, then reopened its airspace after nearly five hours on Wednesday amid concerns about possible military action

Russia expels British diplomat from Moscow embassy over spying claims

Moscow previously expelled two British diplomats based in Moscow over spying allegations in March 2025. The U.K. also said those accusations were false.

Trump sees Iranian crackdown easing, Tehran denies man to be executed

Trump has repeatedly threatened to intervene on behalf of protesters in Iran

Another construction crane collapse in Thailand kills 2 people a day after deadly train derailment

There was uncertainty about the number of victims because the site is still considered too dangerous for search teams to enter, said Suchart Tongteng, a rescue worker with the Ruamkatanyu Foundation.

European military heads to Greenland as Trump's ambitions for island undeterred by talks

Trump has said that the strategically located and mineral-rich island is vital to US security

US pressing Mexico to allow US forces to fight cartels, NYT reports

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has previously declined offers of military action from Trump

Another immigration-related shooting fuels chaos in Minneapolis

The US Department of Homeland Security said the shooting came after two people attacked the officer with a broomstick and snow shovel as he wrestled with the Venezuelan, who it said was illegal

Diversity still a major issue at the Winter Olympics. The US is making some strides

Most of those sliders will almost certainly be women of color. By the time the Games open, this could be the most diverse U.S.

Greenland biathlete pursues Olympic dream while anxious about 'terrifying' threats to her homeland

While stressing that she is an athlete, not politician, Slettemark said the threats from the U.S. are impossible to ignore.

Canada's Carney hails Xi's leadership, improving China ties

Carney's optimistic remarks, in a meeting with China's top legislator Zhao Leji in Beijing, followed months of intense re-engagement by both countries aimed at recalibrating ties

Russian forces liberate another area, killing 1,310 Ukrainian soldiers

Over the last 24 hours, the Ukrainian army lost around 440 soldiers, two tanks, and one infantry fighting vehicle in the area

IMF chief Georgieva arrives in Kyiv for first visit since 2023

Ukraine and the IMF reached a preliminary agreement on an $8.2 billion, four-year lending programme in November, contingent on several actions

Trump reiterates desire for Greenland following high-stakes meeting

The remarks indicate that there are still fundamental, if not intractable, differences between how Washington, Copenhagen and Nuuk see the political future of the island

Iran reopens airspace after temporary closure forced flights to reroute

Iran closed its airspace to all flights except international ones to and from Iran with official permission at 2215 GMT on Wednesday, according to a notice on the US Aviation Administration website

Trump questions Reza Pahlavi's ability to garner support in Iran

He was reluctant on Wednesday to lend his full support to Pahlavi. "He seems very nice, but I don't know how he'd play within his own country. We really aren't up to that point yet," Trump said.

Iran warns of retaliation if Trump strikes, US withdraws some personnel from bases

With Iran's leadership trying to quell the worst domestic unrest the Islamic Republic has ever faced, Tehran is seeking to deter US President Trump's repeated threats to intervene

Trump says Zelenskiy, not Putin, is holding up a Ukraine peace deal

Trump said Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to wrap up his nearly four-year-old invasion of Ukraine.

Min Jin Lee's 'Pachinko' follow-up, 'American Hagwon,' will explore Korean education obsession

“I want to hold up a mirror to society, and, as the kids say, do a ’vibe check,” she says.

Golden Globes draw 8.7M viewers, a nearly 7% dip from 2025

Sunday’s telecast on CBS, hosted by Nikki Glaser, didn’t quite reach the viewership levels of the two previous Globes on CBS

Trump's 'military intervention' in Iran 'appears likely': officials warn

American, European and Israeli sources said preparations for possible action were under way as Washington began evacuating personnel from its major air base in Qatar.

Trump says Iran killings stopped as US scales back Qatar base

The US president said he had received assurances from "very important sources on the other side" that the killings had stopped and that planned executions would not go ahead.

Iran temporarily closes airspace to most flights

The United States already prohibits all US commercial flights from overflying Iran and there are no direct flights between the countries.

US says Gaza truce plan entering phase two as governance body formed

Steve Witkoff wrote on X that phase two of the US leader's 20-point plan would shift the Palestinian territory "from ceasefire to demilitarization, technocratic governance and reconstruction".

Syrian army tells civilians to stay away from Kurdish positions east of Aleppo

Syria's army told civilians to stay away from Kurdish military positions east of second city Aleppo on Wednesday, after it moved reinforcements to the area following deadly clashes last week.

US to suspend immigrant visa processing for 75 nations, says State Department

Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, and Thailand are among affected countries, states report

Ukraine extends martial law and military mobilisation for 18th time

Ukraine’s parliament approves the 18th extension of martial law and military mobilisation, keeping elections on hold and President Zelensky in office.

Russia warns US military threats against Iran are “unacceptable”

Russia condemns US interference in Iran, calling Washington’s military threats unacceptable and urging diplomatic solutions.

Where are the main US military bases in the Middle East?

Iran warns it could target US military bases in the Middle East amid rising tensions with Washington.

EU targets Ukraine's military needs with massive new loan program plus billions in budget support

EU targets Ukraine’s military needs with massive new loan program plus billions in budget support

Wall Street loses more steam as earnings come in ahead of US wholesale price report

Huntington Ingalls Industries jumped 3% overnight after the shipbuilder announced a contract with the U.S. Department of Defense for up to $151 billion.

President Zardari awarded Bahrain's highest honour during Manama visit

President Zardari awarded Bahrain’s highest honor, boosting bilateral ties, discussing trade, investment, defense, and celebrating Pakistani community contributions during historic visit.

Iran warns neighbours it could hit US bases if Washington strikes

Iran warns neighbouring states it could target US bases if Washington strikes, as diplomats flag evacuations, Israeli assessments point to possible US intervention.

At least 25 killed after crane falls on train in Thailand

The crane was working on a high-speed rail project when it collapsed and hit the passing train

At least 2,571 killed in Iran's protests, US-based rights group HRANA says

An Iranian official said on Tuesday about 2,000 people had been killed.

Saks Global files for bankruptcy after Neiman Marcus takeover leads to financial collapse

The move cast uncertainty over the future of U.S. luxury fashion barely a year after a takeover that brought Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus under the same roof.

Trump vows 'very strong action' if Iran hangs protesters

Trump said Tuesday that the United States would react strongly if authorities in Iran started hanging people in their crackdown on a popular uprising against the government.

Iran threatens death penalty for 'rioters' as concern grows for protester

Iranian authorities will press charges punishable by death against some individuals arrested during recent demonstrations, prosecutors said on Tuesday.

Iran ex-empress urges security forces to join protesters

Farah Pahlavi, 87, echoing calls made by her son the former crown prince Reza Pahlavi, said she believed "light will triumph over darkness" despite a crackdown by authorities.

US takes aim at Muslim Brotherhood in Arab world

The United States on Tuesday designated the Muslim Brotherhood branches in Egypt, Lebanon and Jordan as terrorist organizations.

Syrian army tells Kurdish forces to withdraw from area east of Aleppo

Syria's army told Kurdish forces on Tuesday to withdraw from an area east of Aleppo after deadly clashes in the city last week.

Malala Yousafzai voices support for Iranian women and girls

“I stand with the people and girls of Iran in their call for freedom and dignity,” she wrote.

Trump urges Iranians to keep protesting, says 'help is on its way'

US President Donald Trump urged Iranians on Tuesday to keep protesting and said help was on the way, without giving details

Hamas to elect first leader since Sinwar killed by Israel, sources say

Khalil Al-Hayya and Khaled Meshaal are seen as frontrunners

Air India facing UK lawsuit from estates of some deceased in 2025 plane crash

A Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner lost height seconds after taking off from the western city of Ahmedabad on June 12

Trump's Iran tariff threat risks reopening China rift

Iran became a flashpoint in US-China ties during Trump's 2017-21 first term as president

Denmark, Greenland to meet Vance, Rubio on Wednesday amid Trump's takeover threat

Trump first floated the idea of a US takeover of Greenland in 2019 during his first term in office

People inside Iran describe heavy security and scattered damage in first calls to outside world

People inside Iran describe heavy security and scattered damage in first calls to outside world

Malaysia will take legal action against Musk's X and xAI over misuse of Grok chatbot

There is growing scrutiny of generative AI tools that can produce realistic images, sound and text, and concern that existing safeguards are failing to prevent their abuse.

Top Australian writers' festival cancelled after Palestinian author barred

The novelist and academic Randa Abdel-Fattah said the move to bar her was "a blatant and shameless act of anti-Palestinian racism and censorship"

BBC seeks to have Trump's $10 billion lawsuit dismissed

In a filing late on Monday, the broadcaster argued that the court in Florida lacked personal jurisdiction in the case because it did not broadcast the programme in Florida

Taliban ambassador to India takes charge, holds talks with foreign ministry officials

Mufti Noor Ahmad Noor, a senior member of the Taliban, arrived in Indian capital the other day and assumed the role of Charge d’Affaires at the Afghan mission in Delhi

Canadian prime minister visits China after nearly a decade of tense relations

It is the first visit to Beijing by a Canadian prime minister since 2017 and could mark a critical shift in ties between the two countries as Canada seeks new trade and security partnerships

US lawmakers plan Denmark visit as Trump threatens Greenland takeover

The delegation will be led by Democratic Senator Chris Coons and will include Republican Senator Thom Tillis, Democratic Jeanne Shaheen, Dick Durbin along with some members of House of Representatives

In 'big trouble'? The factors determining Iran's future

The demonstrations moved from protesting economic grievances to demanding a wholesale change from the clerical system that has ruled Iran since the 1979 revolution that ousted the shah

US revokes 100,000 visas amid immigration crackdown: State Department

The Trump administration revoked over 100,000 visas, including 8,000 student and 2,500 specialized visas, citing criminal charges. The 2025 revocations double those under Biden in 2024

Ukraine toils to restore power and heat, Zelenskiy warns of new attack

Officials said hundreds of apartment blocks in the capital remained without heat despite round-the-clock efforts by the crews

Four migrants die in US immigration custody over first 10 days of 2026

The deaths included two migrants from Honduras, one from Cuba and another from Cambodia, and occurred from January 3-9, according to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

Brooks Koepka returns to PGA Tour under stiff financial penalty just 5 weeks after leaving LIV Golf

Koepka plans to resume his PGA Tour career in the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines at the end of the month.

Trump has options on Iran, but first must define goal

Trump has options to intervene in protest-hit Iran that range from low to high risk, but choosing his course depends on him deciding his ultimate goal

Iran protest toll mounts as government stages mass rallies

The government's call for rallies in support of the Islamic republic drew thousands on Monday, a turnout supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei hailed as proof that the protests had been defeated.

Rohingya 'targeted for destruction' by Myanmar, ICJ hears

Myanmar deliberately targeted the Rohingya minority with "horrific violence" in a bid to destroy the community, Gambia's justice minister told the International Court of Justice

Trump says US will take Greenland 'one way or the other'

Trump says controlling the mineral-rich Danish territory is crucial for US national security given increased Russian and Chinese military activity in the Arctic.

NATO, Greenland vow to boost Arctic security after Trump threats

NATO and Greenland's government on Monday said they intended to work on strengthening the defence of the Danish autonomous territory.

Somalia ends port deals and security cooperation with UAE

Last month, Israel became the first country to officially recognise Somaliland's independence, a diplomatic breakthrough that was facilitated by Abu Dhabi

Trump declares himself acting president of Venezuela

United States carried out a military operation in Venezuela on January 3

As Canada tries to reduce its dependence on the US, its leader will visit China to rebuild ties

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has sought to repair ties with China since his Labour Party ousted the Conservatives in 2024.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif reaches Morocco on two-day official visit

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif reaches Morocco for a two-day visit, where Pakistan and Morocco are set to sign an MoU to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation.

Germany's Merz floats possibility of EU-India trade deal by end of January

Top EU leaders would travel to India to seal the deal if negotiations wrap up in time

French farmers target food imports as Mercosur protests continue

Farmers in France have been protesting for weeks over grievances including the proposed trade pact with Mercosur bloc

Indian rocket carrying earth surveillance satellite, went off track

Indian rocket carrying earth surveillance satellite, went off track

India left red-faced as ex-Navy commander arrested again in Qatar

Former Indian Navy Commander Purnendu Tiwari has been rearrested in Qatar after a court verdict, months after being freed from death row following diplomatic intervention by India.

Swiss court keeps bar owner in custody after deadly fire

As many as 40 people were killed in the incident

Top UN court to hear Rohingya genocide case against Myanmar

The Gambia brought the case accusing Myanmar of breaching the 1948 Genocide Convention during a crackdown in 2017

Same fate befall Trump that befell Pharaoh, Nimrod and Reza Shah: Ayatollah Khamenei

The Supreme Leader said on social media that a person intoxicated with arrogance is making decisions for the entire world

Trump says weighing tough response to Iran crackdown, Tehran says ready for war but also dialogue

"We are ready for war but also for dialogue," Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Monday in a briefing to foreign ambassadors in Tehran via English translation

Russia calls Ukraine's drone attacks a 'terrorist act'

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that Kyiv has once again demonstrated its “ruthless and Nazi mindset,” targeting Russian civilians after failures on the military front

International law applies to everyone, including US, says German finance minister

"It is solely up to Denmark and Greenland to decide about Greenland's future. Territorial sovereignty and integrity must be respected," Klingbeil said ahead of his departure to Washington

Homeland Security to send hundreds more officers to Minnesota, Noem says

The officers would be deployed to bolster the safety of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol officials already in Minnesota, Noem said on Fox News' "Sunday Morning Futures" programme

UN chief urges Iran to refrain from using 'disproportionate force' against protesters

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged Iranian authorities to show restraint and respect citizens' rights to peaceful protest, condemning violence against demonstrators

Some US senators skeptical about military options for Iran

US President Donald Trump in recent days has left open the possibility of American intervention in Iran. But at least two US senators sounded notes of caution during interviews on TV networks

Cuba defiant after Trump says island to receive no more Venezuelan oil or money

Venezuela is Cuba's biggest oil supplier, but no cargoes have departed from Venezuelan ports to the Caribbean country since the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by US forces

Iran's Pezeshkian pledges action on economic woes amid spiralling protests

Iran’s president accuses the US and Israel of fuelling unrest, urges public to prevent ‘rioters’ from wreaking havoc.

Demonstrators in London, Paris, Istanbul back Iran protests

Demonstrators rallied in London, Paris and Istanbul on Sunday in support of protests in Iran that have been countered with a deadly crackdown by the country's security forces.

Syria govt forces take control of Aleppo's Kurdish neighbourhoods

Syria's government was in full control of Aleppo on Sunday after taking over the city's Kurdish neighbourhoods and evacuating fighters there to Kurdish autonomous areas.

Trump tells Cuba to 'make a deal, before it is too late'

Trump remarks come a week after US forces seized Venezuela's authoritarian leader Maduro in a nighttime operation in Caracas that killed dozens of Venezuelan and Cuban security forces.

Danish PM says Greenland showdown at 'decisive moment' after new Trump threats

Denmark's Prime Minister said that her country faces a "decisive moment" in its diplomatic battle over Greenland after Trump again suggested using force to seize the Arctic territory.

Death toll in Iran protests reaches more than 500, rights group says

Iran has not given an official toll and Reuters was unable to independently verify the tolls. Trump has repeatedly threatened to intervene if force is used on protesters

Israeli fire kills three people in Gaza, three months on from truce

Fighting has largely abated since Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire in October

Hamas says it will dissolve its Gaza government when new Palestinian body takes over

The ceasefire began with a halt in fighting and the release of hostages held in Gaza in exchange for thousands of Palestinians held by Israel.

Japan PM Takaichi may call early election, coalition partner says

Sanae Takaichi is Japan's first female prime minister

Human remains found amid Australia bushfires, police say

Authorities have said the fires are the worst to hit the southeast since the 2019-2020 Black Summer blazes

Millions of Venezuelans scattered across Latin America cautiously watch what comes next

Alexander Leal, 66, who arrived with his wife in 2018, expressed hope as he sold homemade ice cream in the southern hemisphere summer.

Son of Iran's toppled shah seeks a role as protests expand

Reza Pahlavi has sought to speak as a national leader despite living outside Iran since before his father was toppled in the 1979 revolution

Nepalese royalists demand monarchy restoration ahead of March elections

The interim government, headed by Nepal’s first female prime minister, Sushila Karki, a retired Supreme Court judge, took over following protests by Gen Z activists complaining of corruption

Myanmar holds second round of voting in first general election since military takeover

Myo Aung, a chief minister of the Mandalay region, said more people turned out Sunday to vote than in the first phase.

China voices support for Somalia after top diplomat postpones visit

Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the phone call during his visit to Africa

Why Southeast Asia's online scam industry is so hard to shut down

Scam compounds are often sprawling complexes in rural areas, complete with sleeping quarters, shops and entertainment venues for workers.

Confronting protests, Iran vows to strike back if US attacks

Qalibaf, speaking in parliament, warned the US against "a miscalculation. In the case of an attack on Iran, the occupied territories (Israel) and all US bases and ships will be our legitimate target”

Protesters rally in Italy, Greece against US military operation in Venezuela

In Rome, more than 1,000 demonstrators marched toward the area near the US Embassy, calling on Washington to immediately release Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife

Iran warns Washington it will retaliate against any attack

Iran warned President Trump that any US attack would lead to Tehran striking back against Israel and regional US military bases as "legitimate targets", Speaker Baqer Qalibaf told parliament

US military says it carried out strikes across Syria targeting Islamic State

A US-led coalition has been carrying out airstrikes and ground operations in Syria targeting Islamic State suspects in recent months, often with the involvement of Syria's security forces

Iran authorities signal intensified crackdown as unrest grows

There were fresh reports of violence across Iran, although an internet blackout made it difficult to assess the full extent of unrest

Last Kurdish fighters leave Syria's Aleppo city after days of clashes

The departure marks removal of Kurdish forces from pockets of Aleppo they have held since Syria’s war began in 2011, while Kurdish forces continue to run zone across large parts of northeastern Syria

'Racing against time': Death toll rises after Philippines trash site collapse

About 50 sanitation workers were buried when refuse toppled onto them Thursday from what a city councillor estimated was a height of 20 storeys at the Binaliw Landfill

'American? No!' says Greenland after latest Trump threat

"We don't want to be Americans, we don't want to be Danish, we want to be Greenlanders," the leaders of five parties in Greenland's parliament said in a joint statement

Tens of thousands protest in Minneapolis over fatal ICE shooting

Minneapolis police estimate tens of thousands present at protests on Saturday.

Trump orders army chiefs to draw up plan to invade Greenland

‘They want to move quickly to seize the island before Russia or China makes a move’

Malala announces grant to support education, relief efforts

The grant will benefit girls affected by the ongoing war in Gaza, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo

India threatens to deport 224,000 Bangladeshi nationals

Dhaka has expressed concern that the Indian system is increasingly replacing Bangladesh’s electoral process, casting shadows over upcoming elections