Yemen's Huthis fire missiles at US warship: Rebel statement January 30, 2024 at 11:15PM

Yemen's Huthi rebels claimed to have launched "multiple" missiles at a US warship in the Red Sea on Wednesday, following the US military's earlier announcement of intercepting a missile. In a statement, the Huthi rebels asserted, "With the assistance of God Almighty, the naval forces of the Yemeni Armed Forces fired multiple naval missiles at the American destroyer USS Gravely in the Red Sea."

Israeli forces pound Gaza, Hamas studies ceasefire proposal January 30, 2024 at 11:11PM

Israeli forces pound areas in Gaza after Hamas receives and studies a new ceasefire proposal. The proposal involves a three-stage truce, starting with the release of remaining civilians among hostages, followed by soldiers, and then the bodies of hostages.

Ex-IRS contractor gets 5 yrs in prison for leak of tax return info of Trump, rich people January 30, 2024 at 01:03AM

France's government prepares new measures to calm farmers' protests, with barricades squeezing Paris January 29, 2024 at 11:30PM

The protests by farmers in France and Belgium are part of a global food crisis exacerbated by Russia's war in Ukraine. French farmers face rising costs for inputs and argue that the heavily subsidized farming sector is over-regulated. They demand better pay, fewer constraints, and lower costs.

France to push for EU law changes as farmers block Paris highways January 28, 2024 at 10:53PM

India to assist in rescue of Sri Lanka fishermen captured by Somali pirates January 28, 2024 at 12:19AM

India is all set to help Sri Lanka to rescue their fishermen, captured by Somali pirates. The Sri Lankan Navy Spokesperson said that the UN's central maritime command was alerted by Sri Lanka on Saturday on the six fishermen and their trawler being captured by the Somali pirates 840 nautical miles southeast of Mogadishu.

Pakistan: 4 family members axed to death in Sheikhupura January 27, 2024 at 10:57PM

Four family members axed to death in Sheikhupura. The incident occurred in the Saddar Police Station area, where the victims were allegedly killed with a sharp tool. The victims include 80-year-old Shah Muhammad, his 62-year-old wife Ushra, his 18-year-old daughter Kiran. Police arrived at the spot and further investigation is ongoing.

Australia, Canada suspend UN agency funding after Israeli allegations January 26, 2024 at 11:56PM

Australia and Canada have suspended their funding to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, after Israel accused several employees of involvement in Hamas's October 7 attack. UNRWA said on Friday it had sacked several employees accused by Israel of involvement in the October 7 attack.

Alabama faces int criticism over nitrogen gas execution January 26, 2024 at 11:26PM

The White House is deeply troubled by the first-ever execution in the United States using nitrogen gas, carried out in Alabama on Kenneth Smith. The United Nations, European Union, and civil liberties groups expressed concern over the execution. Alabama's Attorney General Steve Marshall defended the execution and stated that there are more people, around 43 imprisoned, will receive nitrogen gas executions.

Biden's reelection campaign team travels to Michigan but shunned by some Arab American leaders January 26, 2024 at 11:06PM

President Joe Biden's campaign manager faced pushback from Arab American leaders in suburban Detroit over the administration's Israel policy. Many community leaders in the Dearborn area declined to meet with Julie Chavez Rodriguez, citing anger over Biden's support for Israel. The incident highlights a growing rift between the White House and a key Democratic constituency in a critical swing state.

Top UN court cautions Israel against 'genocidal acts', stops short of calling for ceasefire January 26, 2024 at 04:02AM

The International Court of Justice has asked Israel to take every measure to improve the humanitarian situation for Palestinians in the region. However, it stopped short of ordering a "ceasefire". However, at this stage of the conflict, the ICJ is not considering whether Israel is actually committing genocide in Gaza since that process will take several years. But the ruling was still seen as a victory by South Africa, which accused Israel of committing genocidal acts.

World Court orders Israel to take measures to prevent and punish incitement of genocide in Gaza January 26, 2024 at 03:07AM

Two missiles explode in Yemen's waters, no damage reported January 26, 2024 at 02:50AM

Two missiles apparently exploded in the waters south of Yemen, believed to be carried out by Yemen's Houthi rebels who have been launching attacks on shipping. Risk monitor Ambrey confirmed the occurrence, and the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations also corroborated the information. Despite the explosions, no damage has been reported. Earlier, Yemen asked the US and UK to leave Israel within a month.

Britain's King Charles III admitted to hospital for enlarged prostate treatment January 26, 2024 at 12:57AM

King Charles III, the British monarch, was admitted to a private London hospital for scheduled treatment for an enlarged prostate. The palace stated that his condition is benign and that he is pleased that his diagnosis is raising awareness about public health. The announcement came after the disclosure of his daughter-in law Kate's abdominal surgery and her need for recovery.

Deadly fighting grinds on in Gaza's Khan Yunis January 25, 2024 at 12:42AM

On Thursday, Israel intensified its military operation in the Gazan city of Khan Yunis, as reported by the Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas. According to Hamas, numerous casualties occurred due to intense bombardment and urban combat. The Israeli army stated that it has "encircled" Khan Yunis, the hometown of Hamas's Gaza chief, Yahya Sinwar, who is accused of orchestrating the October 7 attacks that triggered the ongoing conflict.

Four Indians die in mass drowning at Australia's Philip Island January 24, 2024 at 10:13PM

Four Indians, including two women, have tragically lost their lives in a drowning incident at an unpatrolled beach in Victoria, Australia. This incident marks the worst tragedy in Victorian waters in almost 20 years. The incident occurred at Phillip Island, near Newhaven. Emergency services responded to reports of four people struggling in the water and they were found unresponsive.

Japan craft made successful pin-point Moon landing, space agency says January 24, 2024 at 11:10PM

In previous attempts, Japan's lunar missions faced setbacks. The Omotenashi lunar probe sent in 2022 as part of the United States' Artemis 1 mission was unsuccessful. Additionally, a Japanese startup's private company mission ended in failure, losing communication after a "hard landing". Despite these challenges, Japan's SMART Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) achieved a successful pin-point lunar landing.

North Korea's AI development raises concerns, report says January 23, 2024 at 10:56PM

NORTHKOREA-North Korea's AI development raises concerns, report says

Arkansas abortion ban may be scaled back, if group can collect enough signatures January 23, 2024 at 11:10PM

Farmer protests spread across rural France; one dead in roadblock accident January 23, 2024 at 12:01AM

French farmers expand roadblocks, causing traffic jams; unions demand lower costs and regulation. Outrage spills over from neighbouring countries as EU elections approach. President Macron's new prime minister, Gabriel Attal, faces his first major challenge. Convoys of tractors block roads, including A7 motorway. Woman killed in car accident at roadblock. Farmers protest price pressure from retailers and environmental regulation.

Blinken to meet key West African presidents to rally support January 22, 2024 at 11:30PM

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is on a trip to Africa, meeting with the presidents of Nigeria and Ivory Coast. In Abidjan, he met with Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara, known for consolidating democracy. Blinken will also visit Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, elected on a platform of economic reforms. These West African powers have supported the US despite continental unease over Ukraine and US-Israel relations.

Landslide in hilly south China kills at least 47 January 21, 2024 at 05:41PM

The landslide in China's southwestern Yunnan province on Monday killed at least 8 people. At least 47 people from 18 households went missing, according to the preliminary investigation. The broadcaster said authorities had launched an emergency response involving over 200 rescue workers as well as dozens of fire engines and other equipment. Landslides are common in Yunnan.

Some South Carolina voters ready to support DeSantis, despite acknowledging Trump's lead in state January 20, 2024 at 11:52PM

DeSantis criticizes Nikki Haley's achievements as governor in South Carolina, including her support for a gas tax. Haley's opponents use this as evidence against her. The gas tax proposal was ultimately raised by Haley's successor, Gov. Henry McMaster.

Air pollution and politics pose cross-border challenges in South Asia January 20, 2024 at 11:19PM

The air smells burnt in Lahore, a city in Pakistan’s east that used to be famous for its gardens but has become infamous for its terrible air quality. Toxic smog has sickened tens of thousands of people in recent months. Flights have been canceled. Artificial rain was deployed last December to battle smog, a national first. Nothing seems to be working.

13 students dead in China school fire: Reports January 20, 2024 at 12:36AM

Thirteen school children died in a dormitory fire at the Yingcai School in Henan province, China. The fire was reported to the local fire department and extinguished. One student was injured and is receiving treatment. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.

Russian prosecutors seek lengthy prison terms for suspects in cases linked to the war in Ukraine January 19, 2024 at 11:10PM

Russian court in Siberia sentences man to 19 years in prison for shooting military enlistment officer; prosecutors in St. Petersburg ask for 28-year sentence for woman charged in cafe bombing that killed prominent military blogger. Authorities harshly punish anyone acting against President Putin's war in Ukraine, even peaceful protesters.

24,927 Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza since October 7 January 19, 2024 at 11:04PM

A total of 24,927 Palestinians have been killed and 62,388 have been wounded in Israeli strikes on Gaza since Oct.7, the Gaza health ministry said in a statement on Saturday .

Israel bombs Gaza as disagreements with US simmer January 18, 2024 at 11:49PM

Israel bombarded southern Gaza on Friday after publicly sparring with its primary ally, the United States, over the establishment of a Palestinian state, which Washington sees as the only path to long-term peace. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported "intense" artillery shelling near the Al-Amal hospital, while Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry stated that 77 people were killed and dozens injured overnight.

Ballot paper printing 'halted for some constituencies' in Pakistan January 18, 2024 at 06:08PM

Ballot printing for specific constituencies in Pakistan has been halted owing to litigation, according to an Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) official. On December 22, the electoral watchdog announced a new poll schedule, including the step-by-step procedures leading up to poll day, as well as the dates. Several days after the symbol issuance deadline, the commission has yet to release the final list of nominees.

More arrests as Russia cracks down on rare protests January 18, 2024 at 11:37PM

Police in the central Russian republic of Bashkortostan on Friday arrested more protestors incensed over the jailing of a popular activist as a court sentenced nine demonstrators to short jail terms. Videos on social media showed police arresting protestors at a small rally in the regional capital of Ufa on Friday.

North Korea threat could change 'drastically' given Russia cooperation: US official January 18, 2024 at 07:30AM

Japan signs agreement to purchase 400 Tomahawk missiles as US envoy lauds its defense buildup January 18, 2024 at 06:34AM

What's behind mysterious red marks on Trump's hands January 18, 2024 at 03:36AM

Former US President Donald Trump's red marks during his departure for E Jean Carroll's trial has sparked speculation. Dr. Joshua Zeichner discussed potential causes, including dryness, blisters from physical activities, lime juice reactions, and other reasons. Trump faced ejection from the trial after disregarding warnings and making comments. Judge Lewis A.

Kenyan cult leader to face murder charges in starvation deaths January 16, 2024 at 11:38PM

Kenyan cult leader Paul Mackenzie and 30 associates are ordered by a judge to undergo mental health evaluations before facing charges in connection with the murder of 191 children, whose bodies were exhumed from the Shakahola forest. Mackenzie, head of the Good News International Church, allegedly instructed followers to starve themselves and their children to death for salvation before the world's end. Over 400 bodies were discovered in one of the world's worst recent cult-related tragedies.

Russia says it's developing 'sensitive' tie with North Korea January 16, 2024 at 11:52PM

Russia is expanding relations with North Korea in various areas including "sensitive" ones, said Dmitry Peskov, the spokesperson for the Kremlin. Peskov's statement comes after North Korea's foreign minister expressed appreciation for the close relationship between the two countries. The foreign minister then held rare discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin. Notably, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has extended an invitation to President Putin to visit his secretive and nuclear-armed nation.

Crowd protests jailing of activist in Russian region of Bashkortostan January 16, 2024 at 11:02PM

Fail Alsynov, a rights activist in Russia's Bashkortostan, was sentenced to four years in a penal colony for inciting ethnic hatred. Clashes erupted between his supporters and police, with tear gas fired and arrests made. Alsynov was accused of insulting migrant workers during a protest against gold mining plans. His supporters claim the case is revenge for earlier successful protests against soda mining. Alsynov, a leader of the banned Bashkort movement, asserted his innocence and thanked supporters.

LNG shipments 'will be affected' by Red Sea attacks: Qatar PM January 16, 2024 at 12:47AM

Liquefied natural gas shipments will be affected by tensions in the Red Sea, Qatar's prime minister said on Tuesday, warning that military strikes on Yemen risk aggravating the crisis. The Qatari premier called the Red Sea crisis "the most dangerous escalation right now because it's not affecting only the region, it's affecting the global trade as well", as fears rise that the war in Gaza could spread.

French President Macron will hold a prime-time news conference in a bid to revitalise his presidency January 16, 2024 at 12:18AM

French President Emmanuel Macron will hold his first prime-time news conference on Tuesday to announce his top priorities for the year as he seeks to revitalize his presidency, vowing to focus on "results" despite not having a majority in parliament. More than three years before the end of his term, French President Macron is trying to bring in fresh faces and ideas after appointing a new centrist government last week led by France's youngest-ever prime minister.

Donald Trump on Israel-Hamas war: 'Will solve horrible situation if re-elected' January 15, 2024 at 11:03PM

South Korea, US to start defence cost talks early, before US elections-media January 15, 2024 at 10:55PM

South Korea and the United States will start early talks on cost sharing to extend the Special Measures Agreement beyond 2025. The deal, which funds US forces in South Korea, saw a 13.9% increase in South Korea's contribution. Talks will begin this year to negotiate the extension of the agreement to 2026 and beyond.

Turkey releases Israeli footballer in Gaza war spat January 14, 2024 at 11:45PM

A Turkish court released Sagiv Jehezkel, an Israeli footballer detained for displaying a message about the Israel-Hamas war. Jehezkel showed a bandage with the message '100 days. 07/10' and a Star of David during a match. The statement on the bandage referred to the 100th day of the Israel-Hamas war, which was observed on Sunday. The incident strained relations between Israel and Turkey.

China's military and government acquire Nvidia chips despite US ban January 15, 2024 at 12:25AM

Despite US export restrictions on Nvidia semiconductors to China, a Reuters review of tender documents reveals that Chinese military entities, AI research institutes, and universities have continued to purchase banned chips over the past year. This highlights the challenges the US faces in restricting China's access to advanced chips and the persistent demand for Nvidia's products in China's AI sector, despite the development of alternatives.

Turkey holds 18 people for 'praising terrorism' after soldiers killed in Iraq January 14, 2024 at 11:09PM

Turkish police have detained 18 people for "praising terrorism" after the killing of soldiers last week, while a high-level outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) member was "neutralised" in northern Iraq, authorities said on Monday. Nine Turkish soldiers died in clashes with the PKK in northern Iraq on Friday, prompting Ankara to conduct air strikes and operations both there and in northern Syria.

North Korea fires missile, minister to visit Russia as tensions rise January 14, 2024 at 12:03AM

North Korea fired an apparent intermediate-range missile into the sea on Sunday, South Korea and Japan said, as tensions run high after Pyongyang's recent launches of an intercontinental ballistic missile and its first military spy satellite. North Korea has stepped up pressure on Seoul in recent weeks, declaring it the "principal enemy", saying the North will never reunite with the South and vowing to enhance its ability to deliver a nuclear strike on the US and America's allies in the Pacific.

Religious scholars, tribals call for reopening of schools for Afghan girls January 13, 2024 at 11:00PM

The Taliban has been called upon by religious scholars and tribal leaders to open the country's institutions and universities to women right away, as their basic right to attain education continues to remain compromised, TOLOnews reported. At a meeting in Kabul they said that women should have access to education and that their presence is essential to the country. A meeting on "The role of scholars and tribal elders in strengthening relations between the nation and the system" was held on Saturday at Qasre Sapidar (Sapidar Palace).

South Africa's ANC marks its 112th anniversary ahead of tough election year January 12, 2024 at 11:46PM

South Africa's ruling party African National Congress is celebrating its 112th anniversary ahead of the upcoming national elections. President Cyril Ramaphosa, who is seeking a second term, will outline the party's program for the year. The ANC is facing criticism for failing to deliver basic services to the country's poor majority, as well as allegations of corruption. Polls suggest the party may struggle to gain more than 50% of the vote for the first time in its reign.

Turkey launches airstrikes against Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria after 9 soldiers killed January 12, 2024 at 11:16PM

Turkey's Defense Ministry conducted airstrikes targeting Kurdish militants in Iraq and Syria following an attack on a Turkish military base. The airstrikes aimed to eliminate terrorist attacks against Turkey and ensure border security. The Turkish government has been launching strikes against the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), a banned Kurdish separatist group. Militants linked to the PKK made an attempt to breach a Turkish base in northern Iraq, as reported by Turkish officials. This incident resulted in the death of six soldiers. The additional clashes claimed the lives of six more Turkish soldiers.

Russia may launch naval base in Georgian breakaway region in 2024 January 11, 2024 at 11:47PM

A Russian naval base in Abkhazia, a breakaway territory internationally recognised as part of Georgia, may become operational in 2024, Russian state news agency RIA quoted Abkhazia's security council as saying on Friday.Russian and Abkhazian authorities agreed in October that Russia could open a permanent naval base in the town of Ochamchire.RIA quoted the secretary of Abkhazia's security council, Sergei Shamba, as saying that construction of the base had not yet begun, but that "its operation may begin this year".

China media warns against taking China's Indian Ocean research as threats January 11, 2024 at 11:07PM

Chinese state media warned on Friday that a report by a prominent US think tank on the military uses of Chinese scientific research across the Indian Ocean gave "ammunition" to countries bent on concocting threats from China. The report this week by the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) "comes at a time when some countries need to manufacture a 'China threat' narrative in the Indian Ocean region and provides them with ammunition", the state-controlled tabloid Global Times said in an editorial.

Taiwan spotlights China crackdown on Hong Kong ahead of key poll January 11, 2024 at 01:01AM

As Taiwan prepares for the closely watched election, political parties highlight China's crackdown in Hong Kong and reject Beijing's model for Taiwan. The main opposition party urges fair treatment for China critic Jimmy Lai in his ongoing national security trial. Taiwan's ruling party warns that Taiwan could face the same lack of freedoms as Hong Kong under Chinese rule.