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Ahmed al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, became Syria’s interim president after leading the offensive that toppled Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Born in 1982 in Damascus to a wealthy family, al-Sharaa’s radicalization began after the September 11 attacks. He joined al-Qaeda in Iraq, fought under Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, and was later detained by U.S. forces. In 2011, he founded Al-Nusra Front, which later became Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group tied to al-Qaeda. Despite being labeled a terrorist by the U.S., al-Sharaa distanced himself from al-Qaeda in 2016 and rebranded HTS as a nationalist entity. In recent years, he has adopted a more pragmatic approach, promising inclusive governance and women’s rights, while also adopting a more moderate public image. His past leadership of HTS, known for suppressing dissent, has raised concerns about his ability to govern effectively and fairly in post-Assad Syria.

Illinois Mayor Involved In Violent Brawl At Township Meeting | N18G

On January 28, a Thornton Township Board of Trustees meeting descended into chaos when a brawl broke out. The conflict started after activist Jedidiah Brown directed an expletive at Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard during public comments, which led to a physical altercation among attendees. Henyard was seen joining the fight. A video of the incident surfaced on social media, with Reuters confirming the location and date through analysis. Police intervened to de-escalate the situation, and attendees began leaving the scene as order was restored. The event drew attention due to the violence that erupted during the public meeting.

Trump Shocks Nation by Cutting Security for Fauci – Here's Why! | N18G

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Dr. Anthony Fauci could not have government-provided security indefinitely and should hire his own. Trump confirmed that security had been withdrawn from multiple officials, including former national security adviser John Bolton, ex-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and former Iran envoy Brian Hook. Fauci, who led the U.S. COVID-19 response, had received NIH security due to threats. Trump dismissed concerns, stating that officials had "made a lot of money" and should fund their own protection. He refused responsibility if harm came to them, emphasising that government security is not meant to last forever.

U.S. Judge Blocks Trump’s Federal Grant Freeze; White House Says No Impact On Programs | N18G

A U.S. judge temporarily blocked part of the Trump administration’s directive to freeze federal loans, grants, and other financial assistance. This freeze, which was set to affect billions of dollars in funding for education, healthcare, disaster relief, and other essential programs, was scheduled to take effect on January 29 but was halted by U.S. District Judge Loren AliKhan until February 3. The White House had implemented the freeze to align federal spending with President Trump’s recent executive orders, particularly those ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Several states, including New York, Massachusetts, and California, filed a lawsuit to protect essential federal funding, especially for Medicaid. Critics, including law professors, argued the freeze violated Congress's control over public funding. While the Justice Department had not yet responded, the White House maintained that the freeze would not affect programs Americans rely on. Another court hearing is scheduled to discuss the matter further.

Trump pushes border crackdown at House Republican retreat as he caps first week in office

President Donald Trump regaled House Republicans on Monday with a rhetorical highlight reel from his first week in office, and he urged them to support his immigration crackdown and border security proposals. “We have no apologies and we’re moving very fast," Trump said. He said that “I really focus on the border more than anything else," downplaying the importance of inflation, an issue that fueled his candidacy last year but one that he has less control over as president. Speaking at House Republicans' annual policy retreat, Trump made clear his political ambitions as he rallied lawmakers to advance their conservative agenda. The conference is being held at Trump National Doral Miami, a posh resort with four golf courses owned by the billionaire president. Although Republicans are euphoric over election victories that have given them total control in Washington, they're also facing difficult negotiations in the coming weeks and months.

U.S. military reinforces barrier with Mexico amidst Trump immigration crackdown

The U.S. military released footage of Marines fortifying the barrier on the border with Mexico, as the Trump administration took steps to curb illegal immigration. The footage showed U.S. Marines reinforcing the border fence on Saturday (January 25) with metal beams and barbed wire.

PM Modi and President Trump Reaffirm Commitment to Trusted, Mutually Beneficial Partnership | N18G

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump discussed advancing the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, focusing on trade, defence, energy, and technology. Modi congratulated Trump on his second term, pledging mutual efforts for global peace and prosperity. The conversation addressed US concerns over trade imbalances and irregular immigration, with India seeking time to verify the origins of 18,000 migrants slated for deportation. Both leaders plan to meet at France’s AI summit and are arranging bilateral visits. The talks reinforced the strength of India-US ties while acknowledging challenges like visa delays, trade tensions, and disruptive immigration policies.

Iran unveils its largest, super-heavy drone Gaza, named in honour of resistance against Israel | N18G

Iran has unveiled its largest-ever drone, named "Gaza," in honor of the Palestinian enclave devastated by over a year of war. The drone, which can carry up to 12 bombs, was inspected by Major General Hossein Salami and Amir Ali Hajizadeh of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It is primarily intended for border operations. The Gaza Strip, home to 2.3 million Palestinians before the conflict, has suffered massive destruction following 15 months of fighting between Israel and Hamas. Israel launched its campaign in Gaza after Hamas carried out an attack on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 Israelis and taking over 250 hostages. Since then, Israeli military actions have resulted in the deaths of over 47,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities. The unveiling of the "Gaza" drone reflects Iran’s ongoing support for Hamas and its commitment to strengthening its military capabilities amid the ongoing conflict.

John Ratcliffe sworn in as new CIA director after confirmation from U.S. Senate | N18G

John Ratcliffe was sworn in as the new CIA Director after the Senate confirmed him with a 74-25 vote. Ratcliffe, a Texas Republican and former federal prosecutor, previously served as the Director of National Intelligence under President Donald Trump. He is the first person to hold both positions. Ratcliffe emphasized the need for the CIA to enhance its use of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, to address threats from adversaries like Russia and China. Additionally, he stressed the importance of balancing improved intelligence capabilities with the protection of Americans' civil rights. His confirmation marks a significant step in Trump’s Cabinet reshuffle.

Trump orders declassification of files on assassinations of JFK, MLK and RFK | N18G

On January 23, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an order to declassify government files related to the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr. Trump had promised to release these documents during his 2016 campaign and again during his 2017-2021 term. While he did release some documents regarding JFK’s 1963 assassination, he ultimately withheld a significant portion, citing national security concerns and pressure from the CIA and FBI. JFK’s assassination, officially attributed to Lee Harvey Oswald, continues to spark public interest and conspiracy theories, with many Americans doubting the lone gunman theory. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., son of Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of JFK, has publicly stated his belief that the CIA was involved in his uncle’s death, although the agency rejects this claim as baseless. Trump’s move to declassify these files may provide more insight into these historical events.

Federal judge blocks birthright citizenship executive order, Trump vows to appeal against it | N18G

A federal judge temporarily blocked President Trump's executive order redefining birthright citizenship, deeming it "blatantly unconstitutional." The order, set to take effect on February 19, aimed to limit citizenship to children of U.S. citizens or legal residents, challenging the 14th Amendment's guarantee of citizenship to anyone born in the U.S. This move was contested in lawsuits from 22 states and immigrant rights groups, including a case from Arizona, Illinois, Oregon, and Washington. The judge, John Coughenour, criticized the order, stating it was clearly unconstitutional. The Trump administration argued that no harm had been done yet and that the order only applied to future births. The order could impact hundreds of thousands of births in immigrant communities. The lawsuits cite the 14th Amendment and Supreme Court precedents affirming birthright citizenship, with the Trump administration planning to appeal the judge’s decision.

New wildfire erupts near Los Angeles, 'immediate threat to life' warning issued | N18G

On January 22, a rapidly spreading wildfire broke out 50 miles north of Los Angeles, burning over 3,400 acres and forcing evacuations in the Castaic Lake area. The fire, fueled by dry conditions and strong Santa Ana winds, escalated quickly, with evacuation orders affecting 31,000 people. This new blaze, known as the Hughes Fire, further strained firefighting efforts already focused on two major fires, the Eaton and Palisades Fires. These fires, which had been burning for over two weeks, had already claimed 28 lives and destroyed nearly 16,000 structures. By January 22, the Eaton Fire was 91% contained, and the Palisades Fire was 68% contained. In response to the extreme fire risk, more than 1,000 firefighters were deployed, and much of Southern California remained under red-flag warnings. Despite ongoing efforts, the region's dry conditions and persistent winds continued to fuel the fires, challenging containment efforts.

Trump 2.0: How His Return is Changing the World | Gulf of Mexico, Trade Wars & Global Alliances

Donald Trump is back in the White House, and his policies are already shaking up the world! From proposing to rename the Gulf of Mexico to shifting global alliances, Trump's second term promises big changes. In this video, we explore key ways his return will impact trade, immigration, the Middle East, and more. Watch now and share your thoughts—how will Trump 2.0 reshape the future?

Mahakumbh: CM Yogi holds special UP cabinet meet at Prayagraj, ministers take holy dip at Sangam

On the tenth day of the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath convened a special Cabinet meeting in Prayagraj. After the meeting, CM Yogi and all 54 ministers took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. The meeting was held at Triveni Sankul in Arail, with DGP Prashant Kumar briefing the media about the preparations and the plan for the event. After the meeting, the Cabinet ministers traveled from Arail VIP Ghat to the Sangam by motorboats, where they performed rituals before taking a ceremonial dip. This event is part of CM Yogi’s tradition of leading his cabinet members to the Sangam for a holy bath during significant religious gatherings. A similar event was held during the Kumbh Mela in 2019, when CM Yogi, along with his ministers, participated in the ceremonial dip alongside saints and religious leaders.

Trump expects to speak with Putin on Ukraine conflict soon, says it should have never happened

On Tuesday afternoon, Donald Trump spoke to reporters about several topics, including the Russia-Ukraine war, tariffs, and the TikTok app. Trump reiterated that he expects to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin “very soon” and insisted that the Russian invasion of Ukraine would never have happened if he had been president. He attributed the conflict to Putin disrespecting President Biden, claiming that he and Putin shared a strong understanding. Trump also responded to questions about TikTok, which has been banned from federal devices due to concerns over Chinese espionage. While Trump acknowledged that he hadn’t yet installed the app, he mentioned that he was considering it and praised TikTok for its effectiveness in engaging young voters. Trump emphasized his positive view of the platform, saying he has a "warm spot in my heart" for it. Additionally, Trump spoke about his stance on tariffs toward Mexico, Canada, and China, though those comments were not detailed.

Trump open to Musk taking over TikTok, announces $500 billion investment in AI infrastructure | N18G

U.S. President Donald Trump expressed openness to the idea of Elon Musk purchasing the popular social media app TikTok, should the Tesla CEO be interested. This follows concerns about national security risks related to TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, with a law requiring the app’s U.S. operations to be sold. Trump also signed an executive order on January 20 to delay the law’s enforcement by 75 days. In addition to this, Trump announced a significant $500 billion private sector investment plan for AI infrastructure in the U.S., spearheaded by a joint venture called Stargate, involving companies like OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle. This venture will create over 100,000 jobs and focus on rapidly building data centers to support AI demands. Oracle’s Larry Ellison confirmed the construction of large-scale data centers in Texas. The initiative follows the rollback of Biden’s executive order on AI, aimed at reducing potential risks.

Episcopal bishop gives Trump earful on immigrants and LGBT youth at prayer service

President Donald Trump began his first full day in office attending a prayer service at the Washington National Cathedral on Tuesday (January 21) and got a sermon he may not have been expecting: an appeal to protect immigrants and respect gay rights. A day after declaring in his inauguration speech that there were only two genders in America and signing executive orders to crack down on immigrants, Episcopal Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde pleaded with Trump, from the pulpit, to show mercy on people. Watch here for more details -

Trump orders U.S. withdrawal from WHO, signs slew of other executive orders | N18G

On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed several executive orders, including significant actions such as ending birthright citizenship and directing the U.S. to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) within a year. This move also includes halting all U.S. financial contributions to the WHO, potentially jeopardizing global health programs aimed at tackling diseases like tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and other health crises. Additionally, Trump focused on reversing policies from the Biden administration, particularly those promoting racial equity and diversity within the federal government. Trump repealed 78 executive orders from Biden, including measures that supported LGBTQ+ rights and anti-discrimination efforts. Speaking on the day he signed the orders, Trump also addressed foreign policy issues, including his efforts to negotiate a deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war, cease oil purchases from Venezuela, and pressure NATO nations to increase defense spending. These actions reflect Trump’s broader political agenda and a return to his campaign promises.

Panamanians protest against US Trump's threats to take back control of canal | N18G

After President Donald Trump mentioned again during his inauguration speech that he will seek to regain control of the Panama Canal, unionised workers marched on Monday (January 20) to the U.S. ambassador's residence in Panama City to protest the president's threats. "We do not accept Trump's declaration under any circumstances. Neither Trump, nor the 'gringos' (referring to U.S. citizens), nor their army, nor their government have anything to do in Panama," said Saul Mendez, secretary general of a construction workers union. Protesters holding Panama flags and shouting slogans burned a U.S. flag in front of the ambassador's house. During his inauguration speech on Monday inside the Rotunda of the U.S. Trump repeated his intention to take back control of the Panama Canal, one of several foreign policy pronouncements that have caused consternation among U.S. allies. Back in December 2024, then president-elect Trump had raised the same threat about seizing control of the canal, an 82-km (51-mile) artificial waterway connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans that is a core international shipping route. Watch here for more details

Trump signs executive orders on inauguration of second presidential term

Donald Trump moved swiftly to impose his will on the U.S. government as he reclaimed the presidency on Monday (January 20), taking steps to curb immigration, slash environmental regulations and withdraw from an international climate treaty. Cheered by a crowd at an indoor rally, Trump sat at a desk as he signed a series of executive orders in leather dossiers, the first steps in enacting a far-reaching agenda to expand America's territory, curb immigration, boost fossil fuel production and roll back environmental regulations. He said he would sign more such orders when he reached the White House

Trump Sworn in for Second Term, Vows to Reshape America with Bold Executive Actions

Donald Trump was sworn in as U.S. president for a second term, completing a stunning political comeback despite a felony conviction, assassination attempts, and past indictments. Prioritising border security, he plans executive actions, including sending troops to the southern border and ending birthright citizenship. The inauguration, held indoors due to extreme cold and security concerns, saw attendance by former presidents and prominent tech leaders. Trump pledged to restore the federal death penalty, end diversity initiatives, and pardon over 1,500 Capitol riot defendants. Meanwhile, he launched a controversial crypto token, and his administration promises sweeping changes, prioritising loyalty over institutionalism.

Exclusive from Davos 2025: Andrew Ng on AI, India, and Global Tech Trends

In an exclusive conversation at Davos, AI pioneer Andrew Ng shares his insights on India's AI talent, the importance of coding in the AI era, US export curbs, and his take on Trump’s impact on US tech. A must-watch!

Reliance Chairman Mukesh Ambani to attend Trump’s Inauguration alongside wife Nita

Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani and the Reliance Foundation founder and chairperson Nita Ambani will attend President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on Monday. The information has been received from an official involved with event planning of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration ceremony. The couple will have a prominent spot at the ceremony, seated together on the platform with other notable guests, including Trump's Cabinet nominees and elected officials. The Ambanis will arrive in Washington DC on January 18, according to the official sources. Watch here for more details -

Mukesh, Nita Ambani To Attend Trump’s Second US Presidential Inauguration | N18G

Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani will attend Donald Trump's second Presidential inauguration on January 20, 2025, marking the 60th US Presidential Inauguration. The event, held at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, will feature a swearing-in ceremony at noon. Preceding celebrations include a reception, fireworks, and dinners starting January 18, which the Ambanis will attend. High-profile guests include Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, Xavier Niel, and global leaders like Hungarian PM Viktor Orban. The Ambanis are also slated for exclusive interactions with Vice President-elect JD Vance. The inauguration signifies Trump’s political resurgence and global business collaboration.

Know all the cases against Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi

A Pakistani court on Friday sentenced former Prime Minister Imran Khan to 14 years imprisonment and his wife Bushra Bibi to seven years in a land corruption case, his legal team said. The verdict in the case, the largest in terms of financial wrongdoing faced by Khan, was delivered by an anti-graft court in a prison in the garrison city of Rawalpindi, where Khan has been jailed since August 2023. Here are some of the allegations against the 72-year-old former cricket star, named in dozens of cases since he was ousted from office in 2022 that have kept him behind bars for more than a year.

Gaza Ceasefire: Netanyahu confirms deal after 'last-minute hurdle', to convene cabinet | N18G

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a deal for the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, including a ceasefire and the release of Palestinian prisoners. However, the agreement faced delays due to disputes with Hamas, and Netanyahu plans to seek approval from his security cabinet. Tensions within his government have complicated the approval process, despite initial optimism from U.S. President Joe Biden and Qatar as mediators. Netanyahu's office reported that Hamas was backing out of parts of the deal, causing a last-minute crisis. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes have continued across Gaza, resulting in at least 72 casualties. According to the terms of the deal, 33 hostages will be released over the next six weeks in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Further negotiations will determine the release of remaining hostages, including male soldiers, contingent on a lasting ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal. The ongoing violence has created a devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan Sentenced To 14 Years Jail In Al-Qadir Trust Case

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been sentenced to 14 years in prison, while his wife, Bushra Bibi, faces 7 years for their involvement in the £190 million Al-Qadir Trust case. The court also imposed fines, and the verdict was delivered after multiple delays. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin Achieves Historic Orbital Milestone in Space Race | N18G

Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket successfully launched on its first orbital mission early Thursday, January 16, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida. Standing 30 storeys tall with a reusable first stage, the rocket marked a major milestone for Jeff Bezos’ space company in its bid to rival SpaceX in satellite launches. While the second stage reached orbit successfully, the first stage booster failed to land on a barge in the Atlantic Ocean. The mission carried the prototype Blue Ring spacecraft, designed for satellite servicing and national security missions. This inaugural flight is part of Blue Origin’s plan to deploy customer satellites.

Blinken heckled during speech on Gaza ceasefire, accused of genocide | N18G

On January 14, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken faced heckling during a speech at the Atlantic Council, where he outlined a post-war plan for Gaza. The protesters accused Blinken of war crimes and genocide against Palestinians, a sentiment linked to U.S. support for Israel amid the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The conflict escalated in October 2023 when Hamas attacked Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking hostages, leading to Israel's military assault on Gaza, which has resulted in over 46,000 Palestinian deaths. Israel has been accused of genocide and war crimes, though it denies these claims. The violence has displaced nearly all of Gaza's population and drawn concerns from global hunger organizations. Blinken revealed that the Biden administration is preparing to hand over a post-war management plan to President-elect Donald Trump’s team, including provisions for an interim Palestinian Authority-led administration and international involvement in Gaza’s governance.

California wildfire aftermath; rescue teams, sniffer dogs search debris of burned homes | N18G

Firefighters and search and rescue teams have been working tirelessly to combat two massive wildfires that have devastated parts of Los Angeles over the past week. On January 14, search teams, including sniffer dogs, scoured the charred remains of homes in Altadena and Pacific Palisades, searching for victims and signs of life. A total of 400 rescue personnel were deployed to the Eaton Fire in Altadena, which has burned 14,117 acres, with 35% containment. The fires have destroyed entire neighborhoods, leaving only rubble behind, and the death toll stands at 24. More than 8,000 firefighters from across the country and abroad have been battling the blazes in extremely dangerous conditions due to desert winds and dry terrain. In response to the disaster, a Magic Castle event was held to raise support for the wildfire victims. Despite the overwhelming destruction, rescue efforts continue in hopes of finding survivors.

South Korean President Yoon Arrested: Convoy Leaves Fortified Residence | N18G

Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was arrested over his martial law bid, marking a historic moment. His convoy was seen leaving his fortified residence for questioning by anti-corruption officials. Watch here

How Santa Ana Winds and Drought are Fueling California's Wildfires: Expert Insights on Rapid Spread

Strong winds, dry conditions, and the Santa Ana winds are driving the rapid spread of wildfires across California. Andrew Winters, an expert in atmospheric sciences, explains how these winds, coupled with drought, create a perfect storm for devastating fires. He also shares crucial tips on preparing for fast-moving fires, including evacuation plans and emergency go bags. Watch to learn how weather patterns are intensifying the wildfire risk and how to stay safe during these extreme events.

Russia accuses Ukraine of striking supermarket in Donetsk, killing two

Russia accused Ukraine on Friday (January 10) of carrying out a missile strike on a supermarket in the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, saying the attack killed two civilians and wounded two others. State news agency RIA quoted Russian investigators as saying that a U.S.-supplied HIMARS missile appeared to have been used.

Why LA's Wildfires Are So Devastating | Santa Ana Winds & Climate Crisis Explained

The Palisades Fire in Los Angeles is wreaking havoc, fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds and exacerbated by the climate crisis. In this video, we break down how these winds are fueling the flames, why the fires are so intense, and how climate change is making wildfires more frequent and destructive. Watch now to understand the full impact of this disaster.

Explained | Why is ‘Grooming Gang’ Scandal Dominating UK Politics After Musk’s Criticism? | N18L

Elon Musk's explosive comments have reignited the controversial debate surrounding the U.K. grooming gang scandal. In this video, we break down Musk's attack on key political figures, the calls for a national inquiry, and the political implications for UK leaders like Keir Starmer. Why is this scandal dominating UK politics, and what does it mean for the future? Get all the insights here.

Marico, TCS, Bajaj Auto among the top gainers and losers in trade on January 9

Benchmark indices Nifty and Sensex ended the session firmly in the negative on January 9 as 12 out of 13 indices plunged into the red. Bucking the trend was the FMCG index, up sharply after brokerage firm CLSA made consumer staples its biggest anti-consensus call for 2025.. Here’s a look at the top gainers and losers in trade today. 

Canada court grants bail to 4 Indian nationals accused in Hardeep Nijjar murder case | N18G

Four Indian nationals—Karan Brar, Amandeep Singh, Kamalpreet Singh, and Karanpreet Singh—accused of murdering Khalistani leader Hardeep Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia, in June 2023, have been granted bail by a Canadian court. They face charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. Arrested in May 2024 by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the men are currently released under a "stay of proceedings" while awaiting trial. The case has been moved to the British Columbia Supreme Court, bypassing a preliminary inquiry through a "direct indictment." A publication ban has been imposed on pre-trial proceedings. The murder of Nijjar attracted global attention after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of being involved, though India denied the allegations. The case has strained India-Canada relations, particularly concerning Khalistani extremism, and has polarized the Sikh diaspora in Canada. The trial's next hearing is set for February 11, 2025.

Italian journalist Cecilia Sala freed from Iran jail, returns home | N18G

Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, who was detained in Iran for three weeks, returned home to Italy on Wednesday, greeted by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Sala, a writer and podcaster, had been reporting on recent changes in Iranian society with a regular journalist visa when she was arrested on December 19, 2024. She was accused of "violating the laws of the Islamic Republic" and was placed in solitary confinement. Her arrest came shortly after Iranian businessman Mohammad Abedini was detained in Milan on a U.S. warrant, which alleges he supplied drone parts used in an attack in Jordan that killed three U.S. service members. Iran denied using Sala as a bargaining chip. Abedini remains in a Milan prison, with a court hearing next week to decide on his request for house arrest before extradition proceedings to the U.S. Sala was released three days after Prime Minister Meloni's visit to the U.S. played a role in her release.

California wildfire displaces over one lakh in Pasadena, blaze breaks out in Hollywood Hills | N18G

On January 8, 2025, wildfires around Los Angeles escalated, spreading into the Hollywood Hills and forcing over 100,000 evacuations. The fires, which began the previous day, killed at least five people and destroyed hundreds of homes, severely taxing firefighting resources and water supplies. Fierce, hurricane-force winds fueled the flames, complicating containment efforts. At least six fires were burning across Los Angeles County, with only one fire partially contained. The Sunset Fire in Hollywood Hills quickly grew to 20 acres, prompting additional evacuations. Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire in Pasadena forced another 100,000 people to flee, and the fire had already consumed 10,600 acres. The fire in Pacific Palisades, burning nearly 12,000 acres, destroyed over 1,000 structures, making it one of the most destructive in the area’s history. Emergency response efforts included 60 strike teams, and firefighters from neighboring states were brought in to assist in controlling the blazes.

Raging wildfires raze across California, firefighters battle blaze amid evacuations | N18G

A powerful wildfire, fueled by extreme winds, is sweeping through the hills of Los Angeles, affecting neighborhoods with celebrity homes, including Pacific Palisades. Tens of thousands of residents have been ordered to evacuate, with about 30,000 people displaced and over 13,000 structures at risk. Many residents were forced to abandon their cars and flee on foot due to blocked roads. The fire started amid a fierce Santa Ana windstorm, expected to be the strongest in over a decade, with gusts potentially reaching up to 100 mph in mountainous areas. Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed the destruction of multiple structures, though an exact count was not provided. Emergency responders have been working to control the blaze, while residents in areas like Altadena faced rapid evacuations. Despite no reported injuries, officials warned that the worst of the windstorm and fire danger is still ahead, with the winds expected to last for days.

Plane crashes in Australian city of Perth near popular tourist destination | N18G

A tragic light aircraft crash occurred near Rottnest Island off Perth, Western Australia, on January 7, 2025, killing the pilot and two tourists, one from Switzerland and one from Denmark. The aircraft, which was carrying six tourists, crashed on a Tuesday afternoon, approximately 30 kilometers west of Perth, near the popular tourist destination of Rottnest Island. The crash unfolded in front of vacationing families, including children, who were on the island at the time. Three of the tourists survived but were injured. Authorities have since launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. Western Australia’s police commissioner, Col Blanch, confirmed that the investigation into the incident is underway. The authorities are working to understand what led to the tragic accident, as emergency services responded promptly to the scene. The incident has shocked the local community, especially those who were vacationing on Rottnest Island during the event.

Tibet Earthquake Affects Over 120 People, Rescue Teams Search for Survivors | N18G

A powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Tibet on January 7, impacting at least 126 people and causing widespread destruction. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to find survivors in the devastated region, where hundreds of houses have been flattened. The quake’s epicenter was located about 80 km north of Mount Everest, and tremors were also felt in Nepal, Bhutan, and India.

President-Elect Trump Secures $20B Data Center Investment from Emirati Billionaire | N18G

Donald Trump announces a $20 billion investment in U.S. data centers by Damac Properties Chairman Hussain Sajwani. The project aims to boost AI and tech infrastructure across multiple states, with Trump promising faster approvals for major investors.

Trump warns Hamas, says 'all hell will break out' if hostages not returned before inauguration |N18G

President-elect Donald Trump warned Hamas that if all hostages, including American citizens, are not released by his Inauguration Day on January 20, "all hell will break out" in the Middle East. Trump did not specify the actions he would take but emphasized that the situation would be detrimental to Hamas and others. Around 100 hostages remain in Gaza, captured since the October 7, 2023 attack, many of whom are feared to be dead. Trump criticized the initial attack and its devastating toll on lives. The Biden administration has been working on securing their release, but efforts have stalled due to Hamas's rejections and Israeli objections. Experts, including former US Ambassador Daniel Kurtzer, expressed doubts about the substance of Trump’s threats. Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, acknowledged ongoing talks with the Biden team and plans to return to Doha for further negotiations, with both administrations focused on pressuring Hamas.

Meta to end fact-checking, replacing it with community-driven system akin to Elon Musk's X

Social media giant Meta on Tuesday (January 7) scrapped its U.S. fact-checking program for a community-based system similar to X and reduced the curbs on discussions around contentious topics such as immigration and gender identity. The move marks a reversal in Meta's policy as CEO Mark Zuckerberg has long championed active content moderation despite criticism from conservatives over alleged censorship on its platforms. It also comes shortly after the company named Republican policy executive Joel Kaplan as global affairs head and elected Dana White, CEO of Ultimate Fighting Championship and a close friend of President-elect Donald Trump, to its board

Yemen's Houthis claim to attack U.S. and Israeli targets | N18G

On January 6, Yemen’s Houthi military spokesperson, Yahya Sarea, claimed that the group had targeted U.S. and Israeli assets. The Houthis reportedly struck the American aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman, located north of the Red Sea, and thwarted a U.S. attempt to attack Yemen. Additionally, they claimed responsibility for attacks on military facilities in the Israeli cities of Jaffa and Ashkelon. The Iran-aligned Houthis have controlled most of Yemen, including its capital Sanaa, since taking power in 2014 and early 2015. They have been increasingly involved in Middle Eastern conflicts, with their actions framed as part of a broader campaign to support Palestinians in the ongoing Gaza war. The group's expanding military operations and involvement in regional politics highlight its growing influence in the Middle East, reflecting shifting alliances and intensifying hostilities between the Houthis, the U.S., and Israel.

Trump's hush money case; judge rejects request to delay sentencing | N18G

A New York judge, Juan Merchan, rejected Donald Trump's request to delay his sentencing in the hush money case, which is scheduled for January 10, 2025. Trump's attorneys had argued for a postponement, citing his election victory and the pending appeal of his conviction. Merchan dismissed these claims, stating that they were repetitive and noted that the prosecution opposed any delay. Trump had been convicted in May of falsifying business records to cover up a payment to porn star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. The payment aimed to prevent Daniels from disclosing an alleged sexual encounter with Trump. Although Trump's legal team attempted to have the case dismissed, Merchan ruled that Trump would be immune from prosecution once sworn in as president, but the conviction remains in place. Legal experts did not expect Trump to face jail time, with Merchan leaning toward an unconditional discharge, meaning no jail or conditions would be imposed.

Trump's election victory certified by U.S Congress, Harris hails America's democracy | N18G

On January 6, 2025, Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the formal certification of Donald Trump's election victory, clearing the way for his inauguration on January 20. The ceremony, held in a joint session of the House and Senate, marked a stark contrast to the violent Capitol riot four years earlier, when Trump supporters attempted to block the certification of his 2020 loss to Joe Biden. Trump, who received 312 electoral votes compared to Harris's 226, continues to falsely claim his 2020 defeat was the result of widespread fraud, a sentiment he maintained during his 2024 campaign. Harris, in her ceremonial role as president of the Senate, stood composed as she oversaw the electoral vote certification. She emphasized the significance of the peaceful transfer of power and expressed her belief that American democracy remains strong through collective effort and dedication. The certification process went smoothly, reinforcing the democratic norm.