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Israeli forces conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, focusing on weapon storage facilities and military installations. The strikes occurred in areas such as the Bekaa Valley and southern regions, with no immediate reports of casualties. This action follows Lebanon's efforts to disarm Hezbollah under U.S. pressure, amid ongoing tensions despite a 2024 ceasefire agreement.
A recent report by the Halle Institute for Economic Research reveals a significant rise in corporate bankruptcies in Germany, reaching a 20-year high in 2025. With 17,604 cases recorded annually and approximately 170,000 jobs affected, the German economy faces severe structural challenges. High energy costs, industry transitions, and external factors like U.S. tariffs have exacerbated the situation, raising concerns about long-term economic stability.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has criticized the United States for employing trade coercion and making territorial claims over Greenland, actions he believes weaken European unity and sovereignty. Drawing parallels with Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Barrot highlighted growing external threats to Europe. His remarks come amid rising tensions in U.S.-Europe relations, exacerbated by recent American actions, including unilateral military moves against Venezuela and renewed interest in acquiring Greenland from Denmark.
The UMNO General Assembly will address calls for justice for former PM Najib Razak, with 104 out of 662 proposals requesting a royal pardon. The assembly will also discuss the party's future direction and collaborations, but no immediate actions are expected.
U.S. President Donald Trump has canceled a planned second round of strikes against Venezuela following signs of cooperation. He announced that major oil companies will invest at least $10 billion in Venezuela's oil sector. However, all oil tankers in Venezuelan territory must remain anchored for security reasons.
Russia launched 'Iskander' missiles at Ukraine's Lviv region, near EU and NATO borders, escalating tensions. Ukraine denies Russia's claims of retaliation for an alleged attack on Putin's residence, calling the justification absurd. The strikes have raised alarms about European security.
Protest activities in Iran have intensified, leading to a nationwide internet blackout. Demonstrations, which began on December 28 due to economic hardships, have entered their second week with at least 42 reported fatalities. Communication services remain disrupted, and videos shared on social media show widespread gatherings and clashes. International organizations and leaders are closely monitoring the situation as tensions escalate.
Storm Goretti caused extensive power outages and damage across France and the UK. Over 380,000 homes lost electricity in France, mainly in Normandy, while around 65,000 households were affected in the UK.
An investigation into the December 2024 Jeju Air crash reveals that a concrete wall at the runway's end significantly contributed to the high number of fatalities. Without this barrier, simulations suggest all passengers might have survived. The findings contradict earlier government assurances about the wall's safety.
Russia conducted a large-scale military operation against key Ukrainian facilities using advanced hypersonic missiles. The strikes were in response to an alleged drone attack on President Putin's residence. Moscow presented evidence, including drone fragments, to support its claims, while Ukraine and Western nations have denied involvement. The incident highlights escalating tensions and the potential for further conflict.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed anticipation for an upcoming meeting with Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient María Corina Machado, who is expected to visit Washington next week. Trump also indicated his willingness to accept the Nobel Peace Prize if offered by Machado, calling it a 'great honor.' The meeting marks their first encounter since Machado received the award last October. Trump additionally commented on Venezuela's current political instability and the need for national rebuilding before elections can be held.
Elon Musk discusses South Korea's plummeting birthrate and warns of potential severe population shortages. He suggests that if trends continue, the country could be vulnerable to external threats without requiring military action.
President Trump has expressed optimism about reaching a new nuclear arms control agreement with Russia as the New START treaty nears its expiration on February 5, 2024. The treaty, which limits strategic nuclear warheads, is currently the only arms control agreement between the two nations. Trump downplayed concerns about the treaty’s expiry, stating that a better deal would be negotiated. However, arms control advocates warn of potential risks, including increased nuclear arsenals and global instability if the treaty lapses without a replacement.
Malaysia's Health Ministry has enforced a strict ban on promoting tobacco and e-cigarette products, with no exceptions for celebrities or influencers. A recent court ruling fined a comedian RM10,000 for promoting e-cigarettes online, setting a legal precedent.
The United Nations forecasts global economic growth will decline from 2.8% in 2025 to 2.7% in 2026 before rising to 2.9% in 2027. The report highlights resilience amid U.S. tariff hikes but notes slowing growth in major economies like the U.S., EU, and Japan. Regional growth varies widely, with South Asia leading at 5.6%. The UN calls for global cooperation to address trade tensions, price pressures, and climate challenges.
NASA has confirmed that a health issue affecting one astronaut on the International Space Station has led to an early return of the four-person crew. The team will depart aboard SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft within days, marking the first medical evacuation in the station's history.
