Leftist Mamdani takes over as New York mayor under Trump shadow
After the clocks struck midnight, bringing in 2026, Mamdani took his oath of office at an abandoned subway stop to begin managing the United States' largest city. He is New York's first Muslim mayor
Trump says National Guard being removed from Chicago, LA and Portland
Trump's announcement came shortly before a federal appellate court ruled that his administration had to return hundreds of California National Guard troops to Governor Gavin Newsom's control.
Hoping for better year ahead, Gazans bid farewell to 'nightmare' of 2025
Palestinians in Gaza are marking the new year not with celebration, but with exhaustion, grief and a fragile hope that their "endless nightmare" might finally end.
Israel begins demolishing 25 buildings in camp
The buildings, home to some 100 families, are in the Nur Shams camp, a frequent site of clashes between Palestinians and Israeli forces.
Turkey steps up anti-IS raids, arresting 125 suspects
Turkey on Wednesday detained another 125 Islamic State group suspects in a string of nationwide raids, a minister said.
Iran government building attacked as top prosecutor responds to protests
A government building in southern Iran was attacked on Wednesday, authorities said, as the country's top prosecutor warned of a "decisive response" to any attempt to create instability.
Zelensky says deal to end war '10 percent' away
Zelensky said Wednesday his country was "10 percent" away from a deal to end the war with Russia, but cautioned that the most important issues were unresolved.
Happy New Year: Let's hope for the best
An outgoing year always leaves a message of failure or success. Failure is for those who spent the year as they spent all previous years and did nothing to transform themselves
Zohran Mamdani to take over as first Muslim New York mayor under Trump shadow
Mamdani’s office says abandoned subway stop venue for oath-taking reflects commitment to working people
Stocks edge lower as 2025 winds down while gold and silver rise
The more notable action was again in the commodities markets. Gold, silver and copper all resumed their ascent after steep declines a day earlier.
Russia's top general tells troops to keep carving out 'buffer zones' in Ukraine
There was no immediate reaction from Ukraine
Sydney brings in New Year with nod to victims of Bondi attack
Organisers held a minute's silence for the victims of the attack
Myanmar junta says voter turnout at 52pc in first phase of election
The election is the first since a 2021 coup and is taking place during a civil war
Nearly 25 Islamic State fighters killed or captured in Syria, US military says
The latest operations followed a Dec. 13 ambush that occurred near the ancient city of Palmyra while American and Syrian security officials had gathered for a meeting over lunch.
Heavy snow in Poland leaves drivers stranded in tailbacks of up to 20 km
There had also been some disruption to railways and airports
Israel says it will halt operations of several humanitarian organizations in Gaza starting in 2026
Israel says it will halt operations of several humanitarian organizations in Gaza starting in 2026
New Year 2026 begins in New Zealand as world bids farewell to 2025
The capital Auckland lit up to welcome the New Year, with a spectacular fireworks display
CIA behind strike at Venezuelan dock that Trump claims was used by drug smugglers, AP sources say
Trump for months had threatened that he could soon order strikes on targets on Venezuelan land. He’s also taken the unusual step of publicly acknowledging that he had authorized the CIA to carry out c
Bangladesh mourns ex-PM Khaleda Zia with state funeral
She was laid to rest alongside her late husband, Ziaur Rahman, who was assassinated in 1981 during his time as president
Bangladesh's Islamist party open to unity government after February vote
Opinion polls suggest that Jamaat-e-Islami will finish a close second to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the first election it has contested in nearly 17 years
Powerball jackpot winner in Arkansas to get $1.8 billion
The lone winner in Christmas Eve drawing matched all five numbers and the Powerball to capture the second-largest jackpot in US history, ending the game’s three-month stretch without a top winner
Thieves drill into German bank vault and make off with millions
They drilled through a thick concrete wall at a branch of Sparkasse bank in Gelsenkirchen and then broke into several thousand safe deposit boxes and stole a sum estimated in millions of euros
Thailand frees 18 Cambodian soldiers under new ceasefire deal
The Southeast Asian neighbours agreed to halt fighting, ending about 20 days of clashes.
Global 'fragmentation' fuelling world's crises: UN refugee chief
Reflecting on his decade at the helm of UNHCR, Filippo Grandi told AFP that one of the most worrying developments had been how divisions had left the world seemingly incapable of resolving conflicts
Leftist Mamdani to take over as New York mayor under Trump shadow
After the clocks strike midnight, bringing in 2026, Mamdani will take his oath of office at an abandoned subway stop, taking the helm of the US's largest city. He will be New York's first Muslim mayor
Regional temperature records broken across the world in 2025
Globally, the last 12 months are expected to be the third hottest ever recorded after 2024 and 2023, according to provisional data, which will be confirmed by Copernicus in its report in early January
Taiwan stays on high alert as Chinese ships pull back after massive drills
Chinese ships were moving away from Taiwan but Beijing had yet to formally declare the end of the exercises, according to Kuan Bi-ling, head of Taiwan's Ocean Affairs Council
MSF expects to be barred from Gaza after missing Israel deadline
The organisation, which provided care to people during a two-year Gaza Strip war, says deregistration would cut off life-saving medical assistance for hundreds of thousands in the Palestinian enclave
Turkey detains 357 Islamic State suspects nationwide after deadly clash
Interior Minister Yerlikaya said authorities carried out raids in 21 provinces across the country. "We have never, and will never give them an opportunity in future to bring the country to its knees"
Ten countries warn of 'catastrophic' Gaza situation
The foreign ministers of 10 nations on Tuesday expressed "serious concerns" about a "renewed deterioration of the humanitarian situation" in Gaza
A war within a war: Yemen's latest conflict
Yemen has been at war since Iran-backed Houthi rebels ousted the government in 2014, triggering a Saudi-led military intervention, but a new internal conflict has been brewing in recent weeks.
Students join Iran demonstrations after shopkeepers protest
Iranian students staged street protests in Tehran on Tuesday, a day after the capital's shopkeepers demonstrated against economic hardship.
World bids farewell to 2025 - a year of Trump, truces and turmoil
New Year's Eve revellers toasted the end of 2025 on Wednesday, waving goodbye to 12 months packed with Trump tariffs, a Gaza truce
What to know about China's drills around Taiwan
China's military drills around Taiwan entered their second day on Tuesday, the sixth major manoeuvres Beijing has held near the self-ruled island in recent years
UAE announces troops withdrawal from Yemen following Riyadh's accusations
The UAE announces the end of its counterterrorism presence in Yemen, rejecting Saudi claims and affirming regional coordination.
Saudi Arabia says national security is a red line as UAE forces asked to leave Yemen
Saudi Arabia urged the Emiratis to comply with the demand. The UAE's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
End of an era as Bangladesh ex-PM Khaleda Zia dies
Bangladesh's three-time prime minister Khaleda Zia, who hoped to lead her nation one last time after elections next year, died on Tuesday aged 80.
Trump threatens Hamas, warns Iran of more US strikes after Netanyahu talks
US president says there will be ‘hell to pay’ if Hamas fails to disarm, and threatens new strikes on Iran if it tries to rebuild nuclear programme.
Israel hands Trump another international award, after Nobel snub
Donald Trump will receive Israel's highest civilian honor in 2026, after PM Benjamin Netanyahu announced Monday that his country will break with decades of tradition to recognize a non-citizen.
Iraq parliament elects new speaker
Parliament's media office said 309 out of 329 lawmakers took part in the inaugural session, with Haibat al-Halbussi, 45, emerging as the winner from three candidates, with 208 votes.
China conducts second day of military drills around Taiwan
The two-day war games, code-named "Justice Mission 2025", started on Monday and were slammed by Taipei as "military intimidation" by Beijing.
Police say Bondi Beach mass shooting suspects 'acted alone'
A father and son accused of a mass shooting at Australia's Bondi Beach "acted alone" and were not part of a wider terrorist cell, police said.
Hamas confirms death of spokesman Abu Obeida
Israel previously announced it had killed Abu Obeida in a strike on Gaza on August 30.
US offers Ukraine 15-year security guarantee as part of peace plan, Zelenskyy says
Details of the security guarantees have not become public but Zelenskyy said Monday that they include how a peace deal would be monitored as well as the “presence” of partners. He didn’t elaborate, bu
Bangladesh's Gen-Z party faces revolt over alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami, risking its future
At least 30 senior leaders of the National Citizen Party (NCP) have openly opposed its alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami, announced on Sunday, with several resigning in protest
Nepal's former rapper to run for PM in key vote after Gen Z protests
Rapper turned-Kathmandu mayor Balendra Shah, known as Balen, joined the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) or national independent party, led by a former TV host-turned politician Rabi Lamichhane
Kosovo's Kurti promises swift formation of new government after election win
Kurti's party was leading with 49.3% of Sunday's vote, with 99% of votes counted after polls closed at 7 p.m. local time (1800 GMT)
'We are not a threat to anyone': Afghan minister welcomes statements of Dar and religious scholars
According to Afghan television channel Tolo News, Haqqani said that he appreciates such statements that help resolve issues between the two neighbouring countries
Trump, Netanyahu to discuss next phase of Gaza plan
Netanyahu said this month that Trump had invited him for talks, as Washington pushes to establish transitional governance and an international security force for the Palestinian enclave
Three dead in Alawite protests on Syrian coast, local officials say
Syria has been rocked by several episodes of sectarian bloodshed since longtime leader Bashar al-Assad, who hails from the Muslim Alawite minority, was ousted by a rebel offensive last year
Six Islamic State militants killed, seven police wounded in operation in Turkey
It said police teams had launched an operation on a house believed to contain militants near the town of Yalova, on the Sea of Marmara coast, south of Istanbul
Myanmar pro-military party 'winning' junta-run poll first phase: source
The armed forces snatched power in a 2021 coup, but on Sunday opened voting in a phased month-long election they pledge will return power to the people
Indonesia fire kills 16 people in retirement home
The fire at the Werdha Damai retirement home was finally extinguished late on Sunday and authorities are still investigating its cause, police official Alamsyah P. Hasibuan said
Mexican train derailment kills at least 13 people, 98 injured
The Mexican Navy said the train, which derailed near town of Nizanda, was carrying nine crew members and 241 passengers. Of those on board, 139 were reported to be out of danger, while 98 were injured
Bangladesh's student-led party allies with Islamists ahead of election
Since last year's uprising, the National Citizen Party (NCP) has cast itself as a centrist, reformist alternative to nepotism and two-party dominance, but still it is struggling to get voter support
'Shivering from cold and fear': winter rains batter displaced Gazans
A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has been in place since October 10, following two years of devastating fighting. But despite the truce, Gazans still face a severe humanitarian crisis
China launches military drills around Taiwan amid tensions with Japan
The drills will involve live-fire exercises, with five zones around the island under sea and air space restrictions for 10 hours from 8.30am on Tuesday.
Trump says has 'productive' talks with Putin before Zelensky meet
Donald Trump said Sunday he had "productive" talks with Russian leader Vladimir Putin hours before the US president meets Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky.
North Korea tests cruise missiles in show of 'combat readiness'
Kim Jong Un oversaw the drill -- staged Sunday over the Yellow Sea to the west of the Korean peninsula -- and called for "unlimited and sustained" development of his nuclear weapons forces.
China welcomes Thailand-Cambodia truce ahead of trilateral talks
Thailand and Cambodia ended weeks of fierce border clashes that killed at least 101 people
South Korean President Lee names conservative lawmaker as budget minister
President Lee has pushed for a major overhaul of ministries
Guinea votes in presidential election expected to cement Doumbouya's rule
About 6.7 million people are registered to vote
UK secures migrant return deal with Angola, Namibia; DRC faces visa curbs
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been stripped of fast-track visa services after failing to meet Britain's requirements
Bangladesh police say student leader Osman Hadi's killers fled to India
Hadi was a vocal Indian critic who took part in last year's mass uprising
Tepid early turnout in Myanmar election as junta touts stability
The United Nations, some Western countries and human rights groups have said the vote is not free, fair or credible
Daraya reborn: the rebels rebuilding Syria's deserted city
Daraya occupies a special place in the story of the Syrian revolution. Only 7 kms from capital Damascus, its people handed roses to soldiers who were sent to quell their peaceful protest in March 2011
Iraqis cover soil with clay to curb sandstorms
Iraq has long suffered from sand and dust storms, but in recent years they have become more frequent and intense as the country falls prey to the effects of climate change
Kosovo votes in bid to end year-long political impasse
The vote is the second this year in Europe's youngest nation after Kurti's Vetevendosje party fell short of a majority in February
Putin says Russia will achieve its Ukraine aims by force if Kyiv doesn't want peace
Putin's remarks, carried by state news agency TASS, followed a vast Russian drone and missile attack that prompted Ukraine President Zelenskiy to say Russia was demonstrating its wish to continue war
Zelenskiy to meet Trump in Florida for talks on Ukraine peace plan
Zelenskiy has told journalists that he plans to discuss the fate of eastern Ukraine's contested Donbas region, as well as the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and other topics
Central African Republic votes, Russia ally Touadera seeks third term
The 68-year-old mathematician oversaw a constitutional referendum in 2023 that scrapped the presidential term limit, drawing an outcry from his critics who accused him of seeking to rule for life
Chilly Gaza braces for more winter rain and word of any progress in ceasefire talks
Some families in the central town of Deir al-Balah said they had been living in tents for about two years, or for most of the war between Israel and Hamas that has devastated the territory
Taiwan rattled by 7.0 magnitude quake, no major damage reported
The quake with a depth of 73 km was felt across Taiwan and shook buildings in the capital Taipei, the administration said, assigning it an intensity-four category meaning there could be minor damage
Russia opposes Taiwan independence in any form, FM Lavrov says
In an interview with Russia's TASS state news agency, Lavrov also urged Japan to “think carefully” about what he described as a course towards militarisation"
Italy arrests nine over alleged Hamas funding through charities
The suspects are accused of "belonging to and having financed" the Palestinian group, which the European Union designates as a terrorist organisation, prosecutors said in a statement in Genoa
Myanmar polls open amid civil war, junta-backed party tipped to win
The junta that has since ruled Myanmar says the vote is a chance for a fresh start politically and economically for the impoverished Southeast Asian nation
Sikh woman donates land for mosque in Fatehgarh Sahib village
A 75-year-old Sikh woman donated land for a mosque in an East Punjab village, with Sikh and Hindu families also supporting the construction financially
Spanish family of four missing after boat sinks off Indonesia
Spanish family of four missing after boat sinks off Indonesia
Russian drones, missiles pound Ukraine ahead of Zelenskiy-Trump meeting
Russian drones, missiles pound Ukraine ahead of Zelenskiy-Trump meeting
Conflict and fear sap campaign energy ahead of Myanmar election
Myanmar has been in the throes of a nationwide conflict since the military deposed an elected government in a 2021 coup
India's diplomatic failures in 2025 exposed in new report
India's foreign policy in 2025 faced significant setbacks, with failed promises, strained US ties, security failures, and weakened regional relations, according to a new report by 'The Hindu'.
Zelenskiy says Russia using Belarus territory to circumvent Ukrainian defences
The Kremlin used Belarusian territory to launch its February 2022 invasion of Ukraine and Belarus
Winter storm bears down on US Northeast, disrupting airline travel
More than 1,600 commercial airline flights were canceled
Thailand and Cambodia sign truce to halt fierce border conflict
The agreement ended 20 days of fighting that has killed at least 101 people and displaced more than half a million
Yemen's Saudi-led coalition says it will deal with military moves in Hadramout
The statement from the coalition spokesperson, General Turki al-Malki, comes in response to a request from Yemen's head of the Presidential Leadership Council.
Myanmar goes to the polls amid civil war and humanitarian crisis
Already one of Southeast Asia's poorest countries, Myanmar has been hammered by a conflict triggered by a 2021 coup in which the military ousted an elected civilian government.
Myanmar to hold third phase of election voting on January 25, state media reports
The first two phases of voting are set to take place on December 28 and January 11
UAE welcomes Saudi efforts to support security in Yemen, foreign ministry says
Yemen has already been marred by a civil war since 2014
Explosion at Alawite mosque in Syria's Homs kills five
Syria has been rocked by several episodes of sectarian violence since Bashar al-Assad’s ouster
Oymyakon: World's coldest inhabited town hits near -54°C
Oymyakon in Siberia records temperatures near -54°C, showcasing extreme cold and the resilience of its residents.
Thai defence minister to attend truce talks with Cambodia, PM says
Thai and Cambodian officials have been holding parleys at a border crossing since Wednesday
India's water crunch brews risks for beverage giants
Nearly two-thirds of Rajasthan is covered by the Thar Desert
What is Islamic State, the group the US struck in Nigeria?
The Sunni Muslim group emerged in Iraq and Syria and quickly created a "caliphate", declaring its rule over all Muslims and largely displacing al Qaeda
China hits US defence firms with sanctions over arms sales to Taiwan
China views democratically-governed Taiwan as part of its own territory
Nix's late TD pass and stand by Broncos defense finishes off 20-13 win over Chiefs
One secured when the Broncos made one last stop in the closing second at their end of the field.
Myanmar military's election unlikely to bring anything new to country, says analyst
"I think that this election is a sign that to continue with the civil war, like it has always been in the last four or five years, it's very tough and it's really tiring for the Myanmar military"
A year on, Jeju Air crash report delayed as families question probe's credibility
On December 29, 2024, the Boeing 737-800 made an emergency belly landing at Muan airport
Zelenskiy says 'a lot' can be decided before New Year ahead of Trump meeting
Zelenskiy held talks on Thursday with Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and the president's son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Malaysia court finds ex-PM Najib Razak guilty of abuse of power in biggest 1MDB trial
Malaysia and US investigators say at least $4.5 billion was stolen from 1Malaysia Development Berhad, a state fund Najib co-founded in 2009 while in office
Putin indicated Russia could be open to territory swap as part of Ukraine deal, Kommersant says
Andrei Kolesnikov, the Kremlin correspondent for Kommersant, one of Russia's top newspapers, said that Putin briefed top businessmen on the details of the plan at late-night Kremlin meeting on Dec 24
Malaysia judge says ex-PM Najib and 1MDB fugitive Jho Low had 'unmistakable bond' ahead of trial verdict
Malaysia and US investigators say at least $4.5 billion was stolen from 1Malaysia Development Berhad, a state fund Najib co-founded in 2009 while in office. He has denied wrongdoing
South Korea prosecutor seeks 10-year jail term for ex-President Yoon, Yonhap says
Prosecutors have accused the ousted president of trying to block investigators seeking to arrest him in January by barricading himself inside the presidential compound.
Russia refuses to join peacekeeping forces in Palestine
According to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, “Moscow does not intend to send its troops as part of any classic UN peacekeeping mission”
Japan govt approves record 122 trillion yen budget
The 122.3-trillion-yen ($782 billion) budget for the fiscal year from April 2026 will include some nine trillion yen for defence spending
North Korea's Kim Jong Un signals continued missile development in next 5 years
Kim said "the country's missile and shell production sector is of paramount importance in bolstering war deterrent," according to KCNA
Israeli military says it killed a member of Iran's Quds Force in Lebanon
The military identified the man as Hussein Mahmoud Marshad al-Jawhari, calling him a key operative in the force's unit 840. He was assassinated in the area or Ansariyeh, the military said
Trump says US struck IS targets in Nigeria after group targeted Christians
In a Christmas evening post on his social media site, Trump did not provide details or mention the extent of the damage caused by the strikes
Five killed in firefight on Tajik-Afghan border, Tajikistan says
The latest incident demonstrated “the Taliban government’s failure to fulfil their international obligations and repeated commitments to ensuring security and stability
Freedom of worship assaulted as mobs mar Christmas festivities across India
The videos of the incident have gone viral on social media.
Zelenskyy says he's open to creating demilitarized zone in Ukraine's industrial heartland
A similar arrangement could be possible for the area around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which is currently under Russian control, Zelenskyy said.
Jair Bolsonaro backs son's Brazil presidential bid, undergoes hernia surgery
Jair Bolsonaro backs son's Brazil presidential bid, undergoes hernia surgery
Britain, Canada, France among 14 countries condemning fresh Settlements in Occupied West Bank
Britain, Canada, France among 14 countries condemning fresh Settlements in Occupied West Bank
King Charles III picks Westminster Abbey as the site of his Christmas Day broadcast
This year’s Christmas speech will be the fourth since Charles ascended to the throne after his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died in September 2022.
Pope Leo XIV remembers Gaza's suffering in first Christmas homily and calls for peace
Pope Leo XIV remembers Gaza’s suffering in first Christmas homily and calls for peace
China accuses US of trying to thwart improved China-India ties
China views its ties with India from a strategic and long-term perspective
In first Christmas sermon, Pope Leo decries conditions for Palestinians in Gaza
Leo is celebrating his first Christmas after being elected in May by the world's cardinals to succeed the late Pope Francis
Christmas celebrations muted at Bondi as Australians grieve after deadly shooting
The gun attack at a Jewish Hannukah celebration has prompted calls for stricter gun laws
Bangladesh leader considered top PM candidate returns from exile ahead of polls
Bangladesh is heading into the polls under an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus
Somalia's capital votes in first step toward restoring universal suffrage
Somalia last held direct elections in 1969
A blast in Gaza wounds a soldier and Israel accuses Hamas of ceasefire violation
Hamas senior official Mahmoud Mrdawi said on social media that the blast was a result of unexploded ordnance and the group had informed mediators.
Heavy rains drench Southern California, spawn flash flooding, mud flows
The Christmas Eve storm was expected to persist into Friday
Blast hits mosque during evening prayers in Nigeria's Maiduguri, witness says
The blast occurred in a city that has been at the heart of an Islamist insurgency waged by Boko Haram and its offshoot ISWAP for nearly two decades.
North Korea's Kim Jong Un views submarine construction, oversees missile launch, KCNA says
The submarine project is part of the ruling party's effort to modernise North Korea's navy
Faithful return to Bethlehem and Pope Leo XIV celebrates his first Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter's
There were only a handful of foreigners but some residents said they are starting to see signs of change as tourism slowly returns.
Christians worldwide celebrate Christmas with enthusiasm
Millions of Christians worldwide commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ
Wall Street hovers near record levels and will close early
The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits fell last week and remain at historically healthy levels despite some signs that the labor market is weakening.
Thousands flock to Bethlehem to revive Christmas spirit after 2 years of war in Gaza
The city where Christians believe Jesus was born had cancelled Christmas celebrations for the past two years. Manger Square instead had featured a nativity scene of baby Jesus surrounded by rubble and
Russia plans a nuclear power plant on the moon within a decade
The moon is 384,400 km (238,855 miles) from our planet
Russian attacks on Ukrainian ports cause drop in food exports
Russian attacks on Ukrainian ports cause drop in food exports
Turkiye, Hamas discuss Gaza ceasefire deal's second phase, Turkish source says
Hamas says that humanitarian aid entering Gaza is not sufficient
South Korean lawmakers pass bill targeting false information despite warnings on censorship
The Democrats, who have failed to pass similar legislation under past governments, say the law is needed to counter a growing threat of fake news
US and Ukraine reach consensus on key issues aimed at ending the war but territorial disputes remain
How the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, the largest plant in Europe which is under Russian occupation, will be managed is another contentious issue.
Ex-aide says Netanyahu tasked him with making a plan to evade responsibility for Oct. 7 attack
Ex-aide says Netanyahu tasked him with making a plan to evade responsibility for Oct. 7 attack
Thai and Cambodia militaries hold talks on resuming ceasefire
At least 21 civilians have been in killed in Cambodia since the fighting
Putin has been briefed on US proposals for Ukraine peace plan, the Kremlin says
US President Trump wants to be remembered as a peacemaker
Chinese capital Beijing further eases home buying curbs
Families with more than one child will also be allowed to buy an additional home in downtown Beijing
Black box recovered from Libyan general's crashed plane
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya told reporters at the crash site that the plane's voice recorder and the flight data recorder (black box) had been recovered
How Israel's hilltop settlers coordinate attacks to expel Palestinians
Over time, similar modest dwellings have turned into sprawling Israeli housing developments, part of a plan to prevent the birth of a Palestinian state
Two police officers killed by bomb in Moscow near site of Russian general's killing
Russia's State Investigative Committee said that when two police officers approached a man who was acting strangely, they were killed by an explosive device, adding that a third person was also killed
Bangladesh's Tarique Rahman, seen as likely next PM set to return from exile ahead of polls
Rahman, 60, is the son of ailing former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and acting chairman of the party that is widely expected to come out on top in the parliamentary vote set for February 12
Syrian church marks Christmas and reaffirms faith months after deadly attack
“There’s no holiday, neither this year nor next year nor the one after it,” she said.
US judge tosses Trump challenge to New York immigration-related law
The judge rejected Justice Department's arguments that a New York law that restricts ability of Democratic-led state's Department of Motor Vehicles to share information with immigration authorities
US eyes additional Coast Guard assets to seize fleeing tanker, sources say
The days-long pursuit highlights mismatch between the administration's desire to seize sanctioned oil tankers near Venezuela and limited resources of the agency that is mainly carrying out operations
Trump's recall of ambassadors compounds staffing problems at posts in Africa
US embassies across Africa and the State Department's Africa Bureau in Washington have chronically been understaffed across several administrations
World is 'ready' for a woman at helm of UN: Chile's Bachelet tells AFP
Michelle Bachelet,74, who served two terms as Chile's president, was nominated for the UN's top job in September by her country's outgoing leftist leader Gabriel Boric
US Supreme Court rejects Trump's military deployment in Chicago area, for now
The order said the president's authority to take federal control of National Guard troops likely only applies in "exceptional" circumstances
Suspect and state trooper killed in Delaware shooting
Delaware State Police reported an active shooter at the Department of Motor Vehicles building in Wilmington just after 2 pm EST. Shortly after, police said there was no longer an active shooter
Blasts and fire shatter Pennsylvania nursing home, killing at least two
Five people were believed to be missing hours after the blasts and flames ravaged the Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol Township, about 33 km northeast of Philadelphia, Fire Marshal Dippolito said
U.S. eyes additional Coast Guard assets to seize fleeing tanker, sources say
The ship, which maritime groups have identified as the Bella 1, has refused to be boarded by the Coast Guard.
Lebanon denies any army link to Hezbollah after Israeli strike
Israel’s military said the men were involved in planning attacks against its forces and that two were members of Hezbollah’s air defence unit. It also alleged that one of them was serving in army
Israeli defence minister says no plan to resettle Gaza after hinting at one
Defence Minister Katz said the military would never leave all of Gaza and planned to station a type of unit – Nahal – that has historically played a role in establishing Israeli communities
Sean 'Diddy' Combs seeks immediate release from prison in appeals argument
They noted that Combs was convicted of two lesser counts, prostitution offenses that didn’t require force, fraud, or coercion.
Libya's military chief killed in plane crash in Turkiye
The head of Libya's armed forces and four other high ranking military officials died late Tuesday when their business jet crashed shortly after taking off from Ankara.
Bangladesh summons Indian envoy as protest erupts in New Delhi
Bangladesh on Tuesday summoned the top Indian envoy as fresh protests erupted outside its high commission in New Delhi over the mob lynching of a Hindu worker in Dhaka.
Greta Thunberg arrested at pro-Palestinian protest in London
London police on Tuesday arrested Swedish activist Greta Thunberg at a demonstration in support of pro-Palestinian hunger strikers.
Ukraine retreats in east as Russian strikes kill three, hit energy
Kyiv had to withdraw forces from Siversk, a town in heavily embattled Donetsk region on the way to two last strongholds held by Ukraine. Russia announced the capture of Siversk almost two weeks ago.
Venezuela passes law to jail backers of US oil blockade
Venezuela's parliament passed a law Tuesday that carries lengthy prison terms for any national supporting a United States' oil tanker blockade Caracas has termed piracy.
Glue strong enough to tow a car made from used cooking oil
Oil consists of long chains of fatty acids bound to molecules of glycerol (also known as glycerin).
Major Russian drone and missile attack on Ukraine kills at least 3 people and cuts power
In the southern Odesa region, Russia struck energy, port, transport, industrial and residential infrastructure, according to regional head Oleh Kiper.
Trump flew on Epstein jet eight times in the '90s, according to prosecutor email
US government releases nearly 30,000 pages of Epstein-related records, including an email alleging Trump flew on a private jet in the 1990s, while the Justice Department says some claims are unfounded
Six Pakistanis arrested in Saudi Arabia with 71kg drugs
Saudi authorities arrested six Pakistani nationals with 71kg methamphetamine in Riyadh, while foiling two other smuggling attempts and seizing over 200kg drugs.
Ukrainian troops withdraw from eastern town of Siversk
Sloviansk is a northern anchor of the so-called "fortress belt" of cities in Ukraine's heavily industrialised Donbas region, which Russia has demanded Kyiv cede before it ends its war.
Trump unveils plan for 'Trump-class' battleships to boost US sea power
In addition to the new battleship class, the Golden Fleet envisions an increase in the number of other types of war vessels.
Car bomb kills Russian general in Moscow
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that President Vladimir Putin had been immediately informed about the killing of Sarvarov, who fought in Chechnya and had taken part in Moscow’s military campaign
Hundreds protest in New Delhi over killing of Hindu man in Bangladesh
Factory worker Dipu Chandra Das, 27, was beaten and set on fire in Bangladesh's Mymensingh district last week by a crowd.
'He's going to pay': Israelis protest against Premier Netanyahu outside court
One protester said Netanyahu would pay for his "serious crimes," adding the protest would continue in order to ensure that the trial "goes as planned, that he does not receive a pardon"
Russian air attack on Ukraine kills three and knocks out power in most regions
Moscow's latest combined strike hit energy facilities in western regions the hardest
Russia and US discussed 'irritants' in relationship, key issues unresolved, Interfax reports
The two countries have been discussing ways to resolve a series of disputes that have affected the working of their embassies. The talks are separate from Russia-US negotiations over Ukraine war
Vietnam's next leadership taking shape as January congress nears
Lam is viewed as the leading contender to keep the country's most powerful post, but the announcements are expected only at the five-yearly party congress scheduled for January 19-25
Disputed Myanmar election wins China's vote of confidence
International monitors have dismissed the vote starting on Sunday as a charade to rebrand Myanmar's military rule since a 2021 coup, which triggered a civil war
Trapped under Israeli bombardment, Gazans fear the 'new border'
Residents say the attacks have targeted neighbourhoods east of the so-called Israeli-controlled Yellow Line – a demarcation established under the truce between Israel and Hamas
Trump says US needs Greenland for security, taps envoy to 'lead the charge'
Trump named Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry on Sunday as his special envoy to Greenland, drawing renewed criticism from Denmark and Greenland over Washington's interest in mineral-rich Arctic island
Syrian government and SDF agree to de-escalate after Aleppo violence
Syria's state news agency SANA, citing the defense ministry, said the army's general command issued an order to stop targeting the SDF's fire sources
Trump pulls 30 envoys in 'America First' push, critics say it weakens US abroad
The State Department declined to provide a list of the diplomats being recalled. A senior department official said it was "a standard process in any administration" but critics said that was not so
US Justice Department handling of Epstein file release sparks backlash
The Justice Department released thousands of documents on Friday related to Epstein, a convicted sex offender who committed suicide in 2019.
China likely loaded more than 100 ICBMs in silo fields, Pentagon report says
China is expanding and modernizing its weapons stockpile faster than any other nuclear-armed power, according to the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, a Chicago-based non-profit
NGOs fear 'catastrophic impact' of new Israel registration rules
New rules in Israel for registering non-governmental organisations, under which more than a dozen groups have already been rejected, could have a catastrophic impact on aid work in Gaza and West Bank
Deadly clashes in Aleppo as Turkey urges Kurds not to be obstacle to Syria's stability
At least three people were killed in the clashes, which came ahead of a deadline for implementing a March 10 agreement between Damascus and the Kurds to integrate the SDF.
Trump says would be 'smart' for Venezuela's Maduro to step down
Trump said Monday it would be "smart" for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to step down, as US naval forces pressed a blockade on the South American country's oil wealth.
Cambodia says Thailand launches air strikes after ASEAN meet on border clashes
Renewed fighting this month shattered a previous truce and has killed at least 23 people in Thailand and 20 in Cambodia, while more than 900,000 have been displaced on both sides.
Last of kidnapped Nigerian pupils handed over, government says
Authorities said the children, along with seven teachers and support staff, were the last batch of those taken by gunmen in the late November mass abduction in north-central Nigeria.
Bangladesh suspends visa services in Delhi and Siliguri after security incidents
Bangladesh has temporarily suspended visa and consular services in Delhi and Siliguri after protests and security incidents, while India rejected claims of threats to diplomatic safety.
US triples stipend offer to migrants who 'self-deport' to $3,000
US triples stipend offer to migrants who 'self-deport' to $3,000
Second student leader shot in Bangladesh days after Sharif Osman Hadi killing
Another student leader has been shot in Bangladesh days after Sharif Osman Hadi’s killing, with doctors confirming the injured NCP leader is now out of danger.
India's Parliament approves bill to open civil nuclear power sector to private firms
India is one of the world’s biggest emitters of planet-heating gases and over 75% of its power is still generated by burning fossil fuels, mostly coal.
China says US seizure of ships 'serious violation' of international law
Venezuela has the right to develop relations with other countries, China's foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a daily press briefing, adding that China opposes "unilateral and illegal" act
Kremlin frowns on latest Europe, Ukraine changes to peace proposal
The US-drafted proposals for an end to the nearly four-year-old war, leaked to the media last month, raised European and Ukrainian concerns that they were tilted too far in Russia's favour
Russian general killed in Moscow car bomb attack
Lt. Gen. Fanil Sarvarov, head of the Operational Training Directorate of the Russian Armed Forces General Staff, died from his injuries, official spokesperson for Russia’s Investigative Committee said
Kosovo heads to polls as political deadlock threatens vital funds
Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s Vetevendosje party won the last election in February, but failed to secure a majority or find a willing coalition party after an acrimonious campaign
South Korea parliament passes bill to launch probe into 2024 Jeju Air crash
An 18 MPs' panel will probe possible causes of the crash, including whether enough was done against the risk of a bird strike, any engine or mechanical failures and an embankment that the plane struck
Malaysia's jailed ex-PM Najib appears in court, house arrest bid dismissed
Najib, imprisoned since August 2022 for his role in the multi-billion dollar 1MDB scandal, was bidding to compel authorities to confirm the existence of and execute a royal order issued last year
Indonesian women cook 2.5 tonnes of rendang beef for Sumatra floods victims
Head of the West Sumatra Family Welfare Movement Harneli Bahar said the kitchen has managed to cook 2.5 tonnes of beef to make the dish, donated by locals. They have been cooking non-stop for six days
Ukrainian drone attack damages two vessels in Russia's Krasnodar, officials say
All crew on the ships at the Volna terminal on the Black Sea have been safely evacuated, the Krasnodar region’s operational headquarters said on the Telegram messaging app
Japan prepares to restart world's biggest nuclear plant, 15 years after Fukushima
Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, located about 220 km northwest of Tokyo, was among 54 reactors shut after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami crippled the Fukushima Daiichi plant
Global nuclear arms control under pressure in 2026
The first half of the year will see two key events: the US-Russia bilateral treaty, New START, expires on February 5, and in April, New York hosts the Review Conference (RevCon) of the Treaty on NPT
Israel accelerates outposts, roads construction for permanent presence in Gaza: Reports
Israel is laying the groundwork for a permanent military presence across large parts of the Gaza Strip, despite official denials of permanent occupation, according reports and analysis.
Israeli foreign minister urges Jews abroad to move to Israel after Sydney attack
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on Sunday called on Jews living in Western countries to move to Israel, citing what he described as a sharp rise in antisemitism.
Macron, on UAE visit, announces new French aircraft carrier
French President Emmanuel Macron said on Sunday he had given the official go-ahead to replace his country's flagship, the nuclear-powered Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier.
