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.