Week 4, 2025 News Review

Only two days after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli Defense Forces raided the West Bank city of Jenin on October 21, killing at least nine Palestinians and injuring 35. Hamas and Islamic Jihad called for public resistance. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the operation as a 'large-scale and significant military action' aimed at combating the 'Iranian axis'. Since the Gaza conflict in October, the security situation in the West Bank has deteriorated, with hundreds of deaths and thousands of arrests. Palestine is divided between Hamas-controlled Gaza and Fatah-governed West Bank. Hamas urged a general mobilization against Israeli forces, while Fatah has not publicly commented. Despite the ceasefire agreement taking effect, there are doubts about its implementation. President Donald Trump revoked sanctions on Israeli extremist settlers, a move welcomed by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.

A fire at a popular ski resort hotel in north-west Turkey has killed 76 people. The blaze broke out at the 12-storey wooden-clad Grand Kartal Hotel in Bolu at 03:27 local time (00:27 GMT) when 234 people were staying there, and took 12 hours to extinguish. An investigation is underway, with conflicting reports on the hotel's safety standards; nine people, including the hotel's owner, have been arrested. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan vowed accountability for negligence. Flags are at half-mast nationwide as funerals begin. Rescue teams are searching for any remaining bodies. The cause of the fire is unknown, but initial reports suggest it started in the hotel's fourth-floor restaurant.

A fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Turkey's Kartalkaya ski resort in the early hours of Monday killed at least 76 people, marking one of the deadliest fires in Turkish history. Survivors reported not hearing fire alarms, and experts told the BBC that such a high death toll would not be expected in a hotel with properly functioning fire protection systems. The fire started in the restaurant area on the fourth floor at 03:27 (00:27 GMT), with firefighters arriving within 45 minutes. Allegations of inadequacies in the hotel's fire extinguishing systems have surfaced. Nine people, including the hotel owner, have been detained as part of the ongoing investigation. While officials claim the hotel had a fire competence certificate, local mayor Tanju Ozcan has challenged its validity, highlighting potential lapses in fire safety measures.

On March 30, 2023, in London, United Kingdom, Prince Harry settled his privacy lawsuit against Rupert Murdoch's UK newspaper group, which admitted unlawful actions at its Sun tabloid for the first time, concluding the intense legal battle. Harry's lawyer, David Sherborne, stated that the group agreed to pay substantial damages, reportedly an eight-figure sum. Harry had accused the group of unlawfully obtaining his private information from 1996 to 2011. The trial, scheduled to start on Tuesday, was canceled after a last-minute settlement. NGN issued a full apology for the serious intrusion into Harry's and his late mother, Princess Diana's, private lives. NGN has previously paid hundreds of millions in settlements for phone-hacking and other unlawful information gathering but had always denied wrongdoing at The Sun.

According to a report by The Independent on January 21, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated at the World Economic Forum that at least 200,000 European troops are needed as peacekeepers for Ukraine to agree to a ceasefire with Russia. He noted that without strong security guarantees, Europe cannot stop Russian forces, as Russia's deployable troops are now ten times what they were at the beginning of 2022. Zelensky emphasized the military imbalance between Russia and Ukraine, with Russia capable of deploying 1.5 million troops compared to Ukraine's 800,000. He also predicted that Russia would demand Ukraine reduce its military to one-fifth of its current size, a demand Ukraine would never accept.

On January 20, 2025, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order in Washington, DC, granting a full pardon to Ross Ulbricht, the founder of Silk Road. The notorious dark web marketplace was a global hub for illicit drug sales, which prosecutors said contributed to at least six deaths. Ulbricht had been serving a life sentence without parole since 2015 after being convicted on seven charges, including distributing narcotics and conspiring to commit computer hacking. Trump announced the pardon on Truth Social, citing his appreciation for Ulbricht's mother and the Libertarian Movement that strongly supported him. Silk Road, operational from 2011 to 2013, facilitated over $200 million in sales, primarily using bitcoin, making it one of the earliest large-scale applications of cryptocurrency. In recent years, Ulbricht has been seen as a visionary in the digital currency community, with 'Free Ross' campaigns gaining momentum. Trump's alignment with the crypto community during his 2024 presidential campaign opened a window for Ulbricht's pardon.

On January 22, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced an unconditional pardon for Ross Ulbricht, the founder of the dark web marketplace Silk Road. Ulbricht was convicted in 2015 in New York on charges of narcotics and money-laundering conspiracy, receiving a life sentence. Trump supported Ulbricht, viewing his conviction as an example of government overreach. Silk Road, shut down in 2013, sold illegal drugs using Bitcoin, along with hacking equipment and stolen passports. Ulbricht was found guilty of multiple charges, including drug trafficking, money laundering, and computer hacking. Prosecutors claimed his site sold over $200 million worth of drugs anonymously and alleged he solicited murders-for-hire. Ulbricht was arrested in San Francisco, with the judge noting the severity of his crimes. Despite hopes that his sentence would deter others, similar marketplaces continued to emerge.

On Wednesday, a methane explosion in a coal mine in southern Poland injured 16 miners. The incident occurred at the Knurow-Szczyglowice mine, more than 850 meters deep, according to the ambulance service. Lukasz Pach, director of the Regional Emergency Medical Service in Katowice, stated that 14 people have been transported to hospitals, while one miner is still being brought to the surface and is expected to be taken to a hospital by helicopter. Aleksander Chowaniec, deputy head of the State Mining Authority, told state-run broadcaster TVP Info that 44 people were in the area when the gas ignited, with victims suffering burns. JSW shares fell 2.3% at 1132 GMT.

Supporters of Donald Trump who attacked the U.S. Capitol four years ago will begin leaving prison on Tuesday, pardoned by the new president as part of a series of Inauguration Day executive orders signaling radical change for the country. Trump issued orders on Monday, including measures to curb immigration, roll back environmental regulations, and delay the enforcement of a ban on the short-video app TikTok. The pardon of 1,500 defendants sparked outrage from lawmakers endangered in the January 6, 2021, attack. In his inauguration speech, Trump criticized the Biden presidency and portrayed himself as chosen by God to save a faltering nation. However, he faces significant challenges in delivering on his promise of a 'Golden Age of America' amid a divided Congress, inevitable lawsuits, and resistant world leaders. Trump did not immediately raise tariffs but threatened 25% duties on Canada and Mexico by February 1. Global markets reacted with apprehension to Trump's trade and tariff plans, with U.S. markets closed on Monday and first reactions seen in Asian trading on Tuesday. Trump, the first president in over a century to regain the White House after losing it and the first felon to occupy the presidency, enjoys Republican majorities in both chambers of Congress. He launched a sweeping crackdown on illegal immigration, shutting down Biden's CBP One entry program and canceling existing appointments, leaving migrants stunned. The American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit challenging this decision. Trump also withdrew the U.S. from the Paris climate deal and announced plans to leave the World Health Organization. He revoked Biden administration policies on artificial intelligence and electric vehicles, froze federal hiring, ordered government workers back to the office, and established a 'Department of Government Efficiency' advisory board led by billionaire Elon Musk to cut government spending. Trump vowed to eliminate federal diversity programs and require the government to recognize only birth-assigned genders, and announced intentions to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and regain control of the Panama Canal, causing concern among U.S. allies.

US President Donald Trump issued his first executive orders from the White House, focusing on domestic issues. He emphasized that national security would be the main focus of his foreign policy and urged NATO member states to increase their defense spending to 5% of GDP. Trump stated that the US spent $200 billion more on military aid to Ukraine than other NATO countries and reiterated that the conflict in Ukraine would not have started under his leadership. He plans to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and noted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is ready to make a deal to resolve the conflict. Trump also signed executive orders to withdraw the US from the World Health Organization and the Paris Climate Agreement, impose a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico, and threaten the EU with trade tariffs unless they buy more American oil and gas. Additionally, he appointed billionaire Elon Musk to head a government efficiency agency, pardoned 1,500 people who stormed the Capitol in January 2021, and lifted a federal ban on TikTok. Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on January 20, having won the election on November 5, 2024, defeating Democratic Party candidate Kamala Harris.

US President Donald Trump signed multiple executive orders in the White House, rescinding 78 executive orders and memorandums by former President Joe Biden. Trump issued orders to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization and the Paris Climate Agreement, and pardoned 1,500 individuals involved in the January 2021 Capitol riot. He also signed an executive order limiting US citizenship based on birth and reinstated Cuba on the US list of state sponsors of terrorism. Additionally, Trump established a government efficiency agency led by billionaire ally Elon Musk. Trump indicated he may soon speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin and plans to meet him. He also announced tariffs on all goods from Canada and Mexico starting February 1, warned of 100% customs duties on goods from BRICS member states, and threatened EU countries with tariffs if they do not increase purchases of American oil and gas.

A fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in the Turkish ski resort of Bolu has resulted in 10 deaths and 32 injuries. The blaze broke out at 03:27 local time in the restaurant area on the fourth floor and quickly spread to upper levels, with 234 people staying in the hotel at the time. At least two victims died after jumping from windows. Bolu Governor Abdulaziz Aydin noted that the distance from the hotel in Kartalkaya to Bolu's center, combined with freezing conditions, delayed fire engines by over an hour. Rescue efforts continued into the morning, involving 267 emergency personnel. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with prosecutors appointed by Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc to probe the incident.

On January 21, South Korean detained President Yoon Seok-yeol denied charges related to the emergency decree during the third hearing of his impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court. The debate lasted approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes, with only the National Assembly and Yoon Seok-yeol present. Yoon stated that he did not instruct the removal of National Assembly members when declaring the emergency decree on December 3 last year. After the hearing, Yoon went to a military hospital in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, for a routine health check and is currently in good health. The Korean High Public Officials Corruption Investigation Unit said it would attempt to forcibly summon Yoon again if he returns to the detention center, following an unsuccessful attempt on January 20 due to Yoon and his legal team's refusal.

On January 21, Israeli security forces launched an operation in the volatile West Bank city of Jenin, resulting in the death of at least one Palestinian. The military stated that soldiers, police, and intelligence services had initiated a counter-terrorism action in the city, offering no further details. Prior to the Israeli action, Palestinian security forces had been conducting a weeks-long operation to reassert control in the city and the adjacent refugee camp, a major hub for armed militant groups. Palestinian health services reported that at least one Palestinian was killed and four were wounded as the Israeli raid began. This move, which comes just days after the start of a ceasefire in Gaza, underscores the threat of further violence in the West Bank. On the evening of January 20, groups of Israeli settlers attacked Palestinians, smashing cars and burning property, coinciding with newly installed US President Donald Trump's announcement of lifting sanctions on violent settlers.

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump's reversal of sanctions imposed by the Biden administration on Israeli settler groups and individuals accused of violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. Smotrich, in a message to Trump, described the move as an expression of Trump's deep connection to the Jewish people and their historical right to the land. Trump's decision reverses a major policy action by the Biden administration that froze the U.S. assets of these settlers and barred Americans from dealing with them. Smotrich stated that these sanctions were a severe act of foreign interference in Israel's internal affairs, undermining democratic principles and bilateral relations. He looked forward to continued cooperation to strengthen Israel's national security, expand settlements across the Land of Israel, and enhance Israel's global position. The Biden administration had repeatedly urged Israel to hold extremists accountable, believing their actions hindered prospects for a two-state solution. Since the 1967 Middle East war, Israel has occupied the West Bank, which Palestinians seek as the core of an independent state, and has built Jewish settlements there, deemed illegal by most countries, a claim Israel disputes citing historical and Biblical ties.

Colombian President Petro declared a state of emergency on October 20 to address escalating armed conflicts in the northeastern part of the country. The conflict between the National Liberation Army (ELN) and the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) over territory has resulted in hundreds of casualties and displacement of tens of thousands of civilians. Petro announced an internal disturbance and economic emergency, allowing the executive branch to pass certain types of legislation without congressional approval for three months. The Colombian military has deployed 5,000 soldiers to border areas to curb the country's worst violence in years. FARC, once Colombia's largest rebel group, signed a peace deal with the government in 2016 but some members refused to disarm. The government suspended peace talks with the ELN on October 17.

On January 21, a knife attack occurred in Tel Aviv, Israel, leaving four people wounded. The attacker stabbed three civilians on Nahalat Binyamin Street and one civilian on Gruzenberg Street in the southern part of the city. The police classified the incident as a terrorist attack. The assailant, a 29-year-old Moroccan national with a US residence permit, had entered Israel as a tourist on January 18. The attacker was neutralized by security services, and all injured individuals have been hospitalized.

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan confirmed on January 20 that the country is facing another outbreak of Marburg virus disease, with one confirmed case. This marks Tanzania's second outbreak since 2023. Hassan announced this during a joint press conference with WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in the capital Dodoma, stating that a patient in the Kagera Region had been infected with the Marburg virus. The Tanzanian government has swiftly implemented various measures, including enhanced screening and surveillance, and establishing an emergency response team. The WHO had previously reported a suspected outbreak in the Kagera Region that resulted in eight deaths. In March 2023, the region experienced an outbreak that lasted nearly two months and caused six deaths. Marburg virus disease is a severe viral hemorrhagic fever with symptoms including high fever, headache, muscle pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and bleeding, and is transmitted through contact.

Netflix's shares surged more than 14% on Tuesday after the company reported fourth-quarter results that exceeded market expectations. The company surpassed 300 million paid memberships, adding a record 19 million subscribers. Netflix attributed the growth to its content slate, improved product, and typical fourth-quarter seasonality. The global audience is estimated to exceed 700 million. Q4 earnings per share were $4.27, with revenue of $10.25 billion, both higher than anticipated. Full-year revenue expectations were raised to $43.5-$44.5 billion. Netflix will no longer report quarterly paid subscriber counts, switching to a bi-annual 'engagement report'. The company plans to enhance its core business with more series and films, improve product experience, and grow its ads business.

On January 21, 2025, the Palestinian health ministry reported that nine Palestinians were killed and 35 injured by Israeli forces during a major operation in Jenin in the occupied West Bank. Palestinian media reported a series of airstrikes as a large number of troops, backed by drones, helicopters, and armored bulldozers, moved into the city and its refugee camp. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the operation aimed to 'defeat terrorism' in Jenin, long seen as a stronghold of Palestinian armed groups. This comes three days after the start of a ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting the threat of increased violence in the West Bank. Jenin's governor described the incident as an invasion of the camp. Palestinian security personnel reportedly withdrew from some positions before the Israeli forces moved in. An Israeli military spokesman said forces opened fire on civilians and security forces, resulting in injuries. The Palestinian Authority's prime minister condemned the raid, while Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad called for escalated attacks against Israel in response.

In a span of five days, three provinces in Colombia experienced severe armed conflicts, resulting in at least 100 deaths and nearly 20,000 people displaced. The clashes were between the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident militias of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) over territorial control. President Petro declared a state of emergency in some regions and deployed 5,000 soldiers. Although FARC signed a peace agreement with the government, some members remain unreconciled. ELN primarily engages in criminal activities along the Pacific coast and borders. Over 19,000 people have taken refuge in areas like Tibú, with thousands fleeing to the Venezuelan border.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced on January 19 at a Socialist Party rally a proposal to ban non-EU residents from buying homes in Spain, aiming to address the housing shortage. He noted that non-EU residents purchased around 23,000 houses and flats in 2023, still far below the current estimated shortfall. Previously, Sanchez proposed limiting home purchases by non-EU citizens without Spanish residence and imposing a 100% tax on such purchases. These measures are part of a 12-point plan that includes building more public housing, offering financial guarantees for young tenants, and increasing taxes on short-term holiday rentals. Spain faces an annual housing shortfall of about 200,000 units, with British citizens, the largest group of non-EU buyers, being most affected. Any proposal requires parliamentary approval, which is uncertain given Sanchez's minority coalition government's recent legislative struggles.

In July 2024, a knife attack in the northern English town of Southport resulted in the murder of three young girls: Bebe King, 6, Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, 9, who were attending a Taylor Swift-themed dance event for children. Axel Rudakubana, 18, is charged with their murders, along with 10 counts of attempted murder, producing the deadly poison ricin, and possession of an Al-Qaeda training manual. His trial is set to begin on January 20, 2024, at Liverpool Crown Court and is expected to last between four and six weeks. Rudakubana did not speak during his December 2024 hearing, leading Judge Julian Goose to enter not guilty pleas on his behalf. Police have stated the incident is not being treated as terrorism-related. Following the attack, large disturbances erupted in Southport after false reports on social media claimed the suspect was a radical Islamist migrant. The riots spread across Britain, resulting in over 1,500 arrests. The Attorney General's office and local police have warned against publishing or posting anything that might prejudice the trial.

On January 19, 2024, the Yemen-based Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC) announced that the Houthis would limit their attacks on commercial vessels to those linked to Israel, contingent on the full implementation of the Gaza ceasefire. In an email to shipping industry officials, the HOCC stated it was halting 'sanctions' against vessels owned by U.S. or British individuals or entities, as well as those sailing under their flags. The 'sanctions' would be reinstated if the U.S. or U.K. aggressed against Yemen. Since November 2023, the Houthis have conducted over 100 attacks on ships, resulting in at least four seafarer deaths. Major shipping companies have suspended routes through the Red Sea, rerouting via southern Africa to avoid attacks. On the first day of the ceasefire, Hamas released three Israeli hostages, and Israel freed 90 Palestinian prisoners.

On January 20, a fire broke out at a nursing home in the suburbs of Belgrade, Serbia, resulting in 8 deaths and 7 injuries. The blaze, suspected to be arson, occurred at 3:32 AM, with 30 people present in the facility. Serbian Minister of Labor, Employment, Veterans, and Social Affairs, Starovic, stated that emergency services responded swiftly but the fire had already spread, leading to the tragic loss of 8 lives. Preliminary investigations suggest the fire might have been deliberately set, with the prosecution set to release findings later in the day.

On January 20, 2025, at 3:30 a.m., a fire broke out at a nursing home outside Belgrade, Serbia, resulting in eight deaths and seven injuries. Serbian state TV RTS reported that the fire was caused by arson. Luka Causevic, the head of the government's department for emergency situations, stated that there were 30 people in the home when the fire started. The fire was quickly extinguished, and all injured were taken to hospitals in Belgrade, with one woman in serious condition on a ventilator. The prosecutors' office said the fire was caused by one of the nursing home residents who died in the incident. Nemanja Starovic, the Minister for Labour, Employment, and Social Issues, told RTS that there are indications the tragedy was caused by the criminal activity of an individual, with a detailed statement to be released later on Monday.

On January 11, 2025, Pope Francis extended well-wishes to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, praying for wisdom, strength, and protection as he assumes the presidency. Despite previously voicing strong disagreement with Trump's anti-immigrant rhetoric, the pope expressed hope that under Trump's leadership, the American people would thrive and work towards a more just society free from hatred, discrimination, and exclusion. In an Italian television interview on Sunday, the pontiff criticized Trump's reported plan to intensify immigration enforcement as a 'disgrace'. Trump administration officials indicated they were reconsidering plans for immigration raids in Chicago. During the 2016 election campaign, Francis had labeled Trump 'not Christian' due to his views on immigration.

A fuel truck overturned and exploded in Dikko, Niger State, Nigeria on Saturday, resulting in 86 deaths. Of the deceased, 80 were buried in a mass grave at the Dikko primary health center, 5 were taken away by relatives, and 1 died at the Dikko PHC. Additionally, 55 people were injured. Abdullahi Baba-Ara, director-general of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, announced the figures in a statement on Sunday. A similar incident in Jigawa State in October killed 147 people. Fuel prices have soared since President Bola Tinubu ended a fuel subsidy in 2023 as part of economic reforms.

On January 20, 2025, Debra Tice, mother of American journalist Austin Tice, attended a press conference in Damascus, Syria, expressing hope that the new administrations in the U.S. and Syria would help find her missing son, who was captured near Damascus about 12 years ago. Debra criticized the outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden's administration for not negotiating hard enough for her son's release. She had visited Syria in 2015 but was later denied visas. Following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad in December, she was able to visit again. She noted the new Syrian leadership's dedication to bringing her son back but acknowledged that Assad's ousting complicated the search. The U.S. State Department stated there is no U.S. government organization currently in Syria to assist in the search.

US journalist Austin Tice, abducted in Syria while covering the civil war in 2012, remains one of the longest-held American hostages. His mother, Debra Tice, has returned to Syria for the first time in a decade following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime last month. Austin, now 43, was last seen in a video online but his whereabouts remain unknown. US officials believe he was held by the Assad government. After rebels released thousands of prisoners last month, President Joe Biden stated the US believes Austin is alive. Debra met with Syria's de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, hoping to continue the search for her son.

Taliban's acting deputy foreign minister, Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai, called on senior leadership to open schools for Afghan girls, stating that restrictions on women's education are not in line with Islamic Sharia law. He highlighted that during the time of Prophet Muhammad, knowledge was accessible to both men and women, and currently, out of Afghanistan's 40 million population, 20 million females are being treated unjustly. This marks one of the strongest public criticisms by a Taliban official of the school closures, which were reportedly ordered by the supreme spiritual leader Haibatullah Akhundzada despite internal disagreements. The Taliban, who had promised to reopen high schools for girls in 2022 but later reversed the decision, have not provided a timeline for reopening. The policy has faced widespread international criticism, including from Islamic scholars, and Western diplomats have indicated that formal recognition of the Taliban is contingent upon changes in their policies towards women. A Taliban spokesman in Kandahar, where Haibatullah is based, did not immediately comment on Stanekzai's remarks.

South Korean President Yoon Seok-yeol, detained since early January 19, has refused to cooperate with the Public Prosecutor's Office's detention investigation for two consecutive days. On January 20, the office initiated a compulsory interrogation process, but Yoon continued to refuse, leading to the suspension of actions by 9 PM that night. The office announced that the interrogation could not be completed due to Yoon's persistent refusal. Since his arrest on January 15, Yoon has only participated in one investigation and subsequently refused four summonses. His initial detention period expires on January 28, and the prosecution has reminded that the indictment process must be completed by February 7. Yoon has adapted to life in detention and is actively preparing for his impeachment trial. A violent incident occurred at the court when his detention warrant was issued on January 19, resulting in 90 arrests and estimated property damage of 70 million KRW.

Houthi spokesman Nasreddin Amer stated that as long as the Gaza ceasefire remains in effect, the Houthis will suspend attacks on Israeli ships. Effective January 19, 2025, the Houthis have halted attacks on ships bound for Israeli ports but warned that restrictions will be reimposed if Israel aggresses against Yemen. The Houthis will continue targeting ships owned by Israel or Israeli companies. Since mid-November 2023, dozens of civilian ships have been attacked by the Houthis in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. In response, the US and UK have conducted multiple strikes on Houthi targets, while Israel has also launched attacks on Houthi-controlled areas, resulting in casualties.

At least 20 Colombian fighters from rival factions of the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) were killed in weekend clashes in the southeastern Guaviare jungle. The violence follows an offensive by the National Liberation Army (ELN) in the northeastern Catatumbo region, which left at least 80 dead and 11,000 displaced. President Gustavo Petro declared a state of 'internal unrest and economic emergency' in Catatumbo, accusing the warring factions of losing their minds. The human rights ombudsman office and the army reported the latest jungle violence. The FARC factions split last April due to internal differences, with one engaging in peace talks with the government and the other vowing to fight on. Colombia's armed conflict, funded mainly by drug trafficking and illegal mining, has lasted over six decades, resulting in over 450,000 deaths and millions displaced.

On January 20, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (Ocha) reported that 915 aid trucks entered the Gaza Strip, marking the second day of a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas. On January 19, approximately 630 aid trucks entered the Palestinian enclave, with at least 300 heading to the north, where experts have warned of an impending famine. The ceasefire agreement mandates the entry of 600 truckloads of aid into Gaza daily, including 50 carrying fuel, with half destined for Gaza's north. Data from the UN Palestinian relief agency UNRWA showed that 2,892 aid trucks entered Gaza in December 2024. However, gangs and looters have complicated aid distribution. Israel has devastated much of Gaza, displacing the pre-war population of 2.3 million multiple times. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the humanitarian situation as 'catastrophic' and called for coordination among parties to ensure smooth aid delivery.

Moldova and its separatist region Transdniestria moved closer to a gas supply deal on Monday to alleviate power and heating shortages that have plagued the enclave since the beginning of the year. Ukraine refused to renew an agreement allowing transit of Gazprom supplies through its territory to pro-Russian Transdniestria, as well as to customers in Slovakia and Austria. On Monday, Transdniestria residents faced five-hour rolling blackouts, with high-rise apartment dwellers without heating for nearly three weeks, and local authorities stated that gas reserves were sufficient for only 11 days at current reduced consumption levels. Transdniestria's leader, Vadim Krasnoselsky, indicated the region was ready to accept and pay for gas supplies from Moldovagaz, Moldova's national company. Moldova blames Moscow for the crisis and has urged Gazprom to use alternative routes via Turkey, Bulgaria, and Romania. Gazprom insists on no gas supply to Moldova until payment of $709 million in arrears, a figure disputed by Moldova's central government. Krasnoselsky called for depoliticizing the issue and focusing on the people suffering from the cold. He proposed an independent private gas company supply gas to Moldova's border, a proposal under consideration by Moldovan officials. Igor Ananskikh, a member of the Russian State Duma's Energy Committee, suggested that Russia would help finance the gas supplies if an agreement is reached.

President Donald Trump's order suspending US refugee programs has led to the cancellation of flights for 1,660 Afghans cleared to resettle in the US, including family members of active duty US military personnel and those at risk of Taliban retribution. The decision also leaves thousands of other approved Afghan refugees in limbo without assigned flights from Afghanistan or Pakistan. Trump's 2024 election campaign promised strict immigration controls, leaving the fate of US refugee programs uncertain. The White House and State Department did not immediately comment. Afghans and advocates are panicking, says Shawn VanDiver of the #AfghanEvac coalition, urging reconsideration. Nearly 200,000 Afghans have been brought to the US since the Taliban seized Kabul in August 2021.

The scandal involving Fuji Television's alleged arrangement of 'sexual entertainment' continues to escalate, with over 20 companies, including Toyota and Kao, withdrawing their advertisements from the station. In December last year, Weekly Bunshun reported that former SMAP member Masahiro Nakai, who has since disbanded, sexually assaulted a woman with the involvement of a Fuji TV employee. The incident occurred in June 2023, and Nakai paid 90 million yen in settlement. In January 2025, Nakai publicly apologized, but Fuji TV denied any employee involvement. This month, Weekly Bunshun revealed new victims, and Fuji TV President Koji Minami held a press conference to deny the allegations, but his response drew widespread criticism. Companies like Nissan and Kao have withdrawn their ads, citing their human rights policies and corporate principles.

Colombian President Petro announced on the 20th that the country is entering a state of internal turmoil and economic emergency. This move aims to address the escalating armed conflicts within the nation. The declaration of the state of emergency highlights the severe security and economic challenges currently facing Colombia. The government will implement a series of measures to stabilize the situation. Specific measures and subsequent impacts are yet to be further disclosed.

On the first full day of peace in Gaza on Monday, rescue workers and civilians began to confront the massive destruction. Gaza's Civil Defence agency fears over 10,000 bodies remain buried under rubble. Spokesman Mahmoud Basal hopes to recover the dead within 100 days but faces delays due to equipment shortages. New images reveal total devastation from 15 months of Israeli offensive, especially in the north. The UN estimates 60% of Gaza's structures are damaged or destroyed. Despite celebrations at the ceasefire, Gazans remain in desperate conditions. The UN World Food Programme reports over two million Gazans are homeless and reliant on food aid. At least 630 lorries entered Gaza after the ceasefire, the highest since the war began. Sam Rose of Unrwa highlights the immense challenge of rebuilding Gaza. In Israel, families of three freed hostages spoke in Tel Aviv, expressing hope for all families. If the ceasefire holds, 30 more hostages will be released in exchange for about 1,800 Palestinians. Palestinian health authorities estimate over 46,900 killed and 110,700 wounded in Gaza, mostly women and children. The Gaza Civil Defence agency reports 48% of its personnel affected and significant damage to its resources. Despite the end of airstrikes, the grim work continues for Civil Defence workers. Many Gazans are returning to destroyed homes, facing dangerous conditions as the Israeli military withdraws. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the ceasefire at the UN Security Council but warned of worsening conditions in the West Bank.

A UN official in Gaza has warned that the reconstruction process in the devastated Palestinian territory will take a long time despite increased humanitarian aid. Over 630 aid lorries have entered Gaza since a ceasefire and hostage exchange deal took effect on Sunday, bringing much-needed supplies. The deal requires 600 aid lorries daily for six weeks, with Hamas releasing 33 Israeli hostages. Sam Rose, acting director of UNRWA in Gaza, noted increased aid but emphasized the need to rebuild individuals and communities. The WHO has a 60-day plan to restore Gaza's health system. Israel blames UN agencies for failing to distribute aid and accuses Hamas of stealing it, which Hamas denies. Since the October conflict, over 47,000 people have been killed and 1.1 million injured in Gaza, with most buildings destroyed.

The ceasefire and prisoner swap agreement between Israel and Hamas took effect on Sunday after a three-hour delay, halting fighting in Gaza. Six hours after the agreement came into force, Hamas handed over three Israeli female hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross, with each hostage exchanged for the release of 30 Palestinian prisoners by Israel. The agreement, originally scheduled to take effect at 8:30 AM, was delayed due to Hamas's failure to provide a timely list of individuals to be released. In the three hours before the ceasefire, Israeli airstrikes and artillery strikes killed 13 Palestinians. The agreement is divided into three phases, with the first six-week phase seeing Hamas release 33 hostages in exchange for Israel releasing nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Following the ceasefire, Gaza residents celebrated and returned home, and UN aid trucks quickly entered Gaza. Netanyahu described the agreement as a temporary measure, with Israel reserving the right to resume fighting if necessary.

The Palestinian radical movement Hamas has confirmed that the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip has come into effect, stating that it will continue to adhere to the terms of the agreement. In a statement released on its Telegram channel, Hamas claimed that the ceasefire has forced Israel to halt aggression despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's attempts to continue military actions. Starting January 19, Palestinian prisoners will begin to be released, and Israel will soon provide Hamas with a list of 90 women and minors convicted in Israel. Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani announced on January 15 that Israel and Hamas reached a deal to release hostages held in the Gaza Strip and implement a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave through mediation efforts by Doha, Washington, and Cairo. During the first 42-day phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, Hamas will free 33 hostages in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails and detention centers.

A court in Seoul has extended the detention of South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed attempt to impose martial law last month. On Sunday, a judge issued a warrant allowing investigators to keep the 64-year-old suspended president in custody for up to 20 days, citing concerns he might destroy evidence if released. Yoon was arrested on Wednesday after a weeks-long standoff with his presidential security team. His supporters reportedly smashed windows and doors after breaking into the court following the extension of his detention, an act condemned by Yoon and the acting president. The warrant and Yoon's refusal to comply with investigators mark the latest development in South Korea's political crisis. Yoon is being investigated by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) for insurrection over the failed martial law order on December 3, which led to his impeachment and suspension, pending a constitutional court ruling.

On January 19, Canada's former Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland launched her campaign to replace Justin Trudeau as Liberal Party leader and prime minister. Freeland, a close ally of Trudeau and former finance minister for four years since the Liberals took office in 2015, resigned dramatically in December. In her scathing resignation letter, she accused Trudeau of prioritizing his political interests over preparing Canada for potential threats from the incoming Trump administration. Her departure was a significant blow to Trudeau, prompting him to announce his resignation plans. Trudeau will remain as caretaker prime minister until March 9 when the Liberals select a new leader. Freeland, at her campaign launch, stated Trump's dislike for her stems from her fierce defense of Canada. Trump, who resumed power on January 20, threatened a 25% tariff on Canadian imports, to which Freeland vowed “dollar for dollar retaliation,” calling the proposed tariffs “illegal and unjustified.” Freeland and former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor Mark Carney are front-runners to replace Trudeau. The Liberals are trailing the Conservatives in polls, suggesting the new leader may have a short tenure as opposition parties plan to bring down the government after Parliament resumes on March 24, triggering a general election.

On January 19, the German daily Bild revealed a confidential cable from Berlin's ambassador to the United States, Andreas Michaelis, warning of Donald Trump's planned 'strategy of maximal disruption' to redefine the constitutional order, which could weaken democracy in the US. Michaelis was set to represent the German government at Trump's inauguration on January 20, making the timing of the leak highly inconvenient for Berlin. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock confirmed the existence of the cable, stating that embassies writing reports is part of their mission. Conservative candidate Friedrich Merz criticized the cable's content, arguing Germany should not point fingers at the US. Incumbent Chancellor Olaf Scholz, critical of Trump and his allies, expressed concerns about potential US-EU trade conflicts.

The Spanish government plans to impose a 100% property tax on non-EU buyers to address the housing shortage crisis. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez noted that in 2023, non-EU residents purchased 27,000 properties in Spain, mainly for speculation. He also proposed higher taxes on short-term rental apartments and Airbnb listings. Last year, Spain welcomed 94 million international tourists, leading Barcelona and Malaga to restrict short-term rentals. Protests erupted in October and November over rising rents. The proposed tax measure requires parliamentary approval. Real estate agency Gilmar and opposition parties criticize it as ineffective and exclusionary. The government has announced measures to increase housing supply.

After 15 months of conflict, a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect on Sunday, resulting in the release of three Israeli female hostages by Hamas and 90 Palestinian prisoners by Israel. The ceasefire nearly faltered initially due to Hamas's delay in providing hostage names, leading to Israeli airstrikes that killed 19 Palestinians. Eventually, the three Israeli hostages were handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza and returned to Israel. This exchange marks the first of several planned over the next six weeks, aiming to release a total of 33 hostages and about 1,900 Palestinians. The Gaza Strip has suffered severe destruction, with over 46,900 deaths and the majority of its population displaced.

Early on the 19th, the Seoul Western District Court in South Korea approved the detention warrant for President Yoon Suk-yeol, making him the first sitting president to be detained. Supporters of Yoon clashed with the police at the court, resulting in 45 arrests. Yoon is being held in a 10-square-meter cell with modest living conditions. If indicted, he could face up to six months in detention. Latest polls show the ruling National Power Party's support rate surpassing that of the main opposition Democratic Party, indicating extreme political instability in South Korea.

Colombia's human rights ombudsman reported on Saturday that the death toll from rebel-related violence in a key drug trafficking region has doubled to 60. Social media posts indicated that around 60 people have died violently, 32 were kidnapped, and hundreds were displaced due to recent conflict between the leftist National Liberation Army (ELN) and the now-demobilized Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). President Gustavo Petro accused the ELN of committing a war crime in the attacks last week and suspended peace talks with the group. In a statement on Saturday, the ELN accused a faction of the FARC of initiating the conflict by killing civilians and committing other aggressions. The FARC faction did not publicly respond to the allegation but said on Friday it had begun withdrawing its units to prevent escalating violence. The Catatumbo region is strategic for drug trafficking due to its proximity to Venezuela. Since 2022, Petro's government has pursued peace negotiations with leftist guerrillas and criminal gangs founded by former right-wing paramilitaries to end Colombia's internal conflict. Six decades of fighting in the Andean country have killed at least 450,000 people. The ombudsman's office warned that many social leaders and their families are at risk of being kidnapped or killed for opposing the ELN, calling on the ELN and other armed groups to allow humanitarian aid into the area and to "end all attacks against the civilian population."

On January 15, 2025, people reacted to reports of a possible Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal during a rally in Tel Aviv, Israel, calling for the return of captives held in the Gaza Strip. Qatar's foreign ministry announced that the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas will take effect at 0630 GMT on Sunday. The ceasefire will halt fighting after 15 months of war and result in the release of dozens of hostages held by militants in the Gaza Strip and hundreds of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. Israel's Cabinet approved the deal early on Saturday, with the ceasefire set to see the first hostages released. Brokered by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt through months of indirect talks, this ceasefire marks the second truce in the devastating conflict. According to Gaza's Health Ministry, Israel's war against Hamas has killed over 46,000 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, without specifying how many were militants. Israel claims to have killed over 17,000 fighters, but has not provided evidence. The deal stipulates the release of 33 hostages over the next six weeks in exchange for hundreds of Palestinians held by Israel. The remaining hostages, including male soldiers, are to be released in a second phase, negotiated during the first. Hamas has stated it will not release the remaining captives without a lasting ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal. Hamas has agreed to free three female hostages on the first day of the deal, four on the seventh day, and the remaining 26 over the following five weeks.

On January 18, 2025, two senior Iranian judges, Ali Razini and Mohammad Moghiseh, were shot dead in an apparent assassination at the country's supreme court in Tehran. The attacker killed himself while fleeing the scene, and a bodyguard was injured. The motive for the attack remains unclear, but both judges were known for their roles in cracking down on opponents of the Islamic government since the 1980s. The judiciary's media office described the attack as a premeditated assassination. Initial findings indicate the attacker was not involved in any cases before the supreme court, and officials are investigating potential accomplices. Both victims had served in the judiciary for decades, including confirming death sentences. Razini, 71, had previously survived an assassination attempt in 1998, while Moghiseh, 68, had been sanctioned by the EU, the US, and Canada over alleged human rights abuses.

A fuel tanker overturned and exploded in the Suleja area of North Central Niger state, Nigeria, killing 77 people and injuring 25, including rescuers, as they rushed to collect spilled fuel. The incident occurred on Saturday. Nigeria has experienced several similar accidents recently, with a Delta state tanker explosion killing five two weeks ago and another explosion in October claiming 153 lives. Fuel prices in Nigeria have surged by over 400% in the last 18 months due to President Bola Tinubu's economic policies, pushing millions into poverty.

The Director of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency in Nigeria confirmed that a tanker explosion occurred in the Diko area of Niger State on the morning of January 18, resulting in 77 deaths and 25 injuries. The incident was triggered when a tanker carrying gasoline fell and nearby residents scrambled for fuel, causing the explosion. Governor Mohammed Bago visited the scene and ordered a ban on heavy trucks passing through the accident site. Authorities are currently investigating the exact cause of the explosion.

On January 18, at least 60 people were killed and many others injured in Niger State, northern Nigeria, when a petrol tanker truck overturned and the spilled fuel exploded. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) reported that most of the victims were impoverished local residents who rushed to scoop up the leaked petrol despite efforts to stop them. Suddenly, the tanker burst into flames, engulfing another tanker. So far, 60 corpses have been recovered from the scene. Mr Kumar Tsukwam, FRSC sector commander for Niger State, stated that firefighters managed to extinguish the fire. Such accidents are common in Nigeria, Africa's largest oil producer, which is grappling with its worst cost of living crisis in a generation, with petrol prices soaring over 400% since President Bola Tinubu scrapped a decades-old subsidy in May 2023. Mr Bologi Ibrahim, spokesperson to the Niger State governor, urged residents to prioritize their safety in accidents involving petrol tanker trucks.

On January 18, a ski lift collapsed at the Astun Ski Resort in the Spanish region of Aragon, injuring dozens of people, including nine seriously and eight moderately. Approximately 80 people remain trapped, hanging in the chairlift. A witness reported that a cable seemed to have come off, causing the chairs to bounce and people to be thrown off. The cause of the cable failure is still unknown. The resort management declined to comment and could not immediately confirm if foreigners were among the injured. Several helicopters were deployed to rescue the trapped skiers and transport the injured to nearby hospitals. The Astun Ski Resort, popular among Spanish skiers, is located near the Spanish border with France in the Pyrenees mountain range.

The Brazilian Foreign Ministry announced that Nigeria has become the ninth country to join BRICS as a partner state. On January 17, during its temporary presidency of BRICS, the Brazilian government formally announced Nigeria's admission. The Brazilian government welcomed the decision of the Nigerian government. Thus, Nigeria becomes the ninth BRICS partner country, following Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. BRICS is an interstate association founded in 2006 by Russia, China, India, and Brazil, with South Africa joining in 2011. Since the beginning of 2024, several other countries have joined BRICS.

On January 18, a suspected attack occurred in Tel Aviv, Israel. The police reported that several people were injured in a shooting incident, while emergency services stated that one person was wounded by stabbing. The incident took place on Levontin Street in Tel Aviv, with the circumstances still unclear. Emergency service provider Magen David Adom is providing medical treatment to a 30-year-old male stabbed victim. This event happened a day before a ceasefire is set to take effect in Gaza.

US President-elect Donald Trump's statements about Greenland have caused panic in Denmark. Greenlandic lawmaker Kuno Fencker from the ruling coalition party Siumut said Denmark is starting to respect Greenland more and attempted to contact Trump and his administration. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen invited Trump to visit Denmark and stated that Greenlanders should decide their independence themselves. Trump called it 'an absolute necessity' for the US to own Greenland, while Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute Egede responded that the island is not for sale. Greenland was a Danish colony until 1953 and remains part of the kingdom, but gained autonomy in 2009 with the ability to self-govern.

American journalist Austin Tice was captured in Syria in August 2012 while reporting. His mother, Debra Tice, arrived in Damascus on January 18, 2025, to search for her son. Accompanied by Nizar Zakka, head of Hostage Aid Worldwide, she aims to meet with Syria's new authorities. Debra previously visited Syria in 2012 and 2015 but received no confirmation of her son's custody. She criticized the Biden administration for not negotiating hard enough for his release and expressed hope in President-elect Donald Trump. Austin briefly escaped in 2013 but was recaptured.