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On Sunday, February 16, 2026, Israeli television producer Dana Eden, 52, was found dead in a hotel room in Athens, Greece. Authorities are treating the death as a suicide with no suspicion of foul play. Eden was in Greece overseeing filming of the fourth season of the acclaimed series "Tehran." Her production company denied rumors of criminal or politically motivated causes.
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The Berlinale has become embroiled in controversy after jury president Wim Wenders and other jury members made statements opposing political stances on Gaza. Actress and writer Arundhati Roy withdrew from the festival, criticizing the jury's remarks and the festival's stance amid ongoing tensions over Israel and Palestine. The festival defends its focus on socially conscious programming.
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India and Pakistan's cricket teams met in Colombo amid ongoing political tensions. Pakistan threatened to boycott the match, which was played despite diplomatic strains. India won convincingly, with Ishan Kishan scoring 77. The game highlighted strained relations, with players refusing handshakes and political issues affecting the sport.
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On February 16, 2026, US Senator Marco Rubio visited Hungary to meet Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, endorsing a "golden era" in US-Hungary relations tied to Orbán's leadership. With Hungary's April 12 election looming, Orbán faces a strong challenge from opposition leader Péter Magyar amid concerns over democratic backsliding and EU tensions. Rubio emphasized the strategic importance of Hungary to US interests.
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Palmerston, the rescue cat known for his diplomatic role and popularity, died peacefully on February 12 at age 12. After a distinguished career in Westminster and Bermuda, he was celebrated for his gentle nature and influence, leaving a legacy as a rescue hero and diplomatic icon.
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Five European nations confirmed that samples from Alexei Navalny's body contained epibatidine, a toxin from South American dart frogs, implicating Russia in his 2024 death. Moscow denies involvement, calling the findings propaganda. The UK suggests further sanctions and increased pressure on Russia amid ongoing tensions.
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On 16 February 2026, the UK government announced a three-month consultation starting in March to explore banning children under 16 from social media and restricting addictive features like infinite scrolling. The plan includes closing legal loopholes on AI chatbots, limiting VPN use, and preserving children's social media data after deaths. Similar measures are being considered across Europe and Turkey amid rising concerns over online harms to minors.
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As of February 16, 2026, French prosecutors have intensified investigations into former Culture Minister Jack Lang and his daughter Caroline over suspected tax fraud linked to Jeffrey Epstein. Raids at the Arab World Institute and other locations are underway. Meanwhile, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has ordered probes into diplomat Fabrice Aidan's alleged ties to Epstein, amid broader European fallout from newly released US Justice Department documents.
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U.S.-brokered negotiations between Russia and Ukraine are scheduled for February 17-18 in Geneva, amid ongoing fighting, drone strikes, and diplomatic tensions. Recent attacks include drone strikes killing civilians in Odesa and Bryansk, with Ukraine seeking security guarantees and Western support ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion.
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Senator Rubio addressed the Munich Security Conference, emphasizing US-Europe ties amid tensions. He avoided direct references to Russia and NATO, focusing on shared heritage and interests, while criticizing migration and climate policies. European leaders responded cautiously, highlighting ongoing divisions. The story underscores the fragile state of transatlantic relations in 2026.
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Quentin Deranque, 23, died from injuries sustained during a violent clash at a far-left protest in Lyon. The incident has heightened political tensions ahead of upcoming elections, with authorities blaming far-left rhetoric and anti-fascist groups for the violence. The investigation remains ongoing.
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Since the October 2025 ceasefire in Gaza, violence has persisted with Israeli forces killing over 580 Palestinians and Hamas militants attacking Israeli troops. Recent clashes include Israeli strikes on Hamas commanders and militants emerging from tunnels near Rafah. Indonesia is preparing up to 8,000 troops for a potential peacekeeping mission in Gaza, while the Rafah crossing with Egypt has reopened, allowing limited civilian movement.
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U.S. forces have completed their withdrawal from the strategic Al-Tanf base in Syria, transferring control to Syrian forces in coordination with the government. The move follows a deal with Syria and shifts U.S. military focus to counter ISIS threats, with about 900 troops remaining in the country.
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Narges Mohammadi, a prominent Iranian human rights activist and Nobel laureate, has been sentenced to six years in prison, a two-year exile, and a travel ban. She ended a six-day hunger strike amid health concerns, with her detention since December 2025. Her health is reported as 'deeply alarming' after recent hospitalizations.
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Following a brutal crackdown in January that left thousands dead, protests in Iran continue through nightly chants from residents' homes. Supporters of the monarchy, including Reza Pahlavi, are rallying abroad and within Iran, amid ongoing tensions over the regime's legitimacy and future transition prospects. The US-Iran talks on nuclear issues are imminent.
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Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Geneva to prepare for indirect negotiations with the US, mediated by Oman, amid heightened regional tensions and US military build-up. The talks aim to address Iran's nuclear program, with Iran seeking sanctions relief and the US demanding limits on Iran's missile and proxy activities.
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Kenya Airways has issued a travel advisory due to air traffic control delays caused by a strike at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Passengers are advised to check flight statuses before traveling, as schedules are being adjusted. Contingency measures are in place to minimize disruptions.
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Iran's deputy foreign minister announced willingness to discuss limits on its nuclear program, including uranium enrichment, as indirect talks with the US resume in Geneva. Iran seeks sanctions relief and rejects linking nuclear issues to missile capabilities, amid regional tensions and US military posturing. The US has increased military presence in the region.
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Since early February, US sanctions and military actions have targeted Russia's energy sector and shipping, including seizing Russian oil tankers and blocking Starlink access. Russia criticizes these moves as illegal and aims to deepen ties with BRICS, while Ukraine peace talks remain stalled with a deadline set for June.
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MSF suspended non-critical operations at Nasser Hospital in Gaza due to reports of armed men and security threats. The hospital and authorities dispute allegations, with concerns over hospital neutrality amid ongoing conflict and Israeli restrictions. The situation highlights risks to medical neutrality in Gaza.
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Australian authorities and other countries are investigating Roblox amid reports of child grooming, exposure to harmful content, and self-harm material. The government has demanded safety measures and an urgent meeting with the platform, which faces potential fines and regulatory action following ongoing allegations of exploitation.
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Former US President Donald Trump announced a new international peace body, the 'Board of Peace,' aiming to oversee Gaza's reconstruction and global crises. Indonesia commits up to 8,000 troops for Gaza, with pledges exceeding $5 billion. The initiative faces skepticism from allies and questions over disarmament and international cooperation.
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Gisèle Pelicot, a survivor of decades of abuse by her husband, publicly testified in 2024, sparking a national debate on sexual violence in France. Her memoir details her harrowing experience, her decision to waive anonymity, and her ongoing recovery. Her case has become a symbol of resistance and justice.
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A 21-year-old Austrian man linked to Islamic State was arrested in August 2024 for planning a terror attack, including producing a small amount of explosive and attempting to buy weapons. The plot led to the cancellation of Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna, with US intelligence aiding the disruption.
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Brazilian President Lula attended a samba parade honoring his life, sparking controversy over potential early campaigning. Opponents allege the tribute violates electoral laws, while supporters see it as a cultural celebration. Legal challenges are ongoing as the election approaches.
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A ferry capsized in Sudan's River Nile State, killing at least 21 people, including women and children. Survivors number six, with ongoing searches for the missing. The incident highlights Sudan's ongoing safety issues in river transport amid ongoing conflict and infrastructure collapse.
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North Korea has dispatched thousands of soldiers to support Russia in Ukraine, with an estimated 2,000 casualties. Kim Jong Un visited new housing for soldiers' families, amid pledges of unconditional support for Putin. The move aligns with North Korea's recent propaganda and political preparations for its upcoming party congress.
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The UN reports that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) carried out mass killings, sexual violence, abductions, and other war crimes during their offensive on El Fasher in October 2025. Over 6,000 people were killed in the first three days, with widespread violations against civilians based on ethnicity. The report calls for accountability.
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Ukraine's former Energy Minister, Herman Halushchenko, was detained while attempting to leave the country amid allegations of involvement in a $100 million money-laundering scheme linked to the 'Midas' case. The scandal has led to multiple resignations and ongoing investigations into corruption in Ukraine's energy sector.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the five-day AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, aiming to establish a shared global framework for AI governance. The event draws 250,000 visitors, including world leaders and tech CEOs, at a pivotal moment as AI transforms economies and raises regulatory concerns. The summit emphasizes inclusive growth and international collaboration.
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In Thailand's recent election, Bhumjaithai led with 193 seats, positioning Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to form a government. The Pheu Thai Party, backed by Thaksin Shinawatra, finished third with 74 seats. Election irregularities and voter shifts highlight ongoing political tensions.
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San Francisco teachers' strike, which shut down all 120 schools for nearly a week, concluded with a 5% pay raise over two years and fully funded healthcare for dependents. The strike was driven by demands for higher wages and better benefits amid the district's financial crisis. Negotiations continue.
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Anutin Charnvirakul's Bhumjaithai Party won over 190 seats in Thailand's parliament, signaling a shift towards conservative politics. The election saw a decline for reformist parties, amid allegations of vote-buying and entrenched political patronage. A coalition government is expected, with Anutin likely to remain prime minister.
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Malian journalist Youssouf Sissoko was detained after publishing an article questioning claims by Niger's military leader. The arrest highlights ongoing repression of media in Mali, where authorities have cracked down on dissent and independent journalism amid regional instability. Sissoko faces charges of spreading false information and insulting a foreign leader.
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Saudi Arabia and the UAE remain diplomatically strained since December, with Bahrain mediating efforts to bridge the gap. Egypt is also involved, seeking to contain regional conflicts over Yemen, Sudan, and Somalia. The situation highlights ongoing Gulf rivalries and regional instability as of February 15, 2026.
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Former US President Trump publicly criticized Israeli President Isaac Herzog for not granting a pardon to Prime Minister Netanyahu, who faces ongoing corruption trials. Trump, a supporter of Netanyahu, called on Herzog to act, amid tensions over Israel's legal proceedings and US-Israel relations. The story is current as of Sun, 15 Feb 2026.
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On February 5, 2026, President Trump’s Truth Social account posted a video falsely alleging 2020 election fraud, ending with a brief clip showing Barack and Michelle Obama as apes. The post sparked bipartisan condemnation, including from Republican senators. The White House initially defended the post as a meme, then deleted it, blaming a staffer. Trump denied seeing the full video and refused to apologize.
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Israel has resumed military operations in Gaza amid ongoing tensions, citing continued Hamas attacks and tunnel activity. The IDF emphasizes Hamas's refusal to disarm despite a US-brokered ceasefire and peace plan, with plans for potential offensive actions. The situation remains volatile as diplomatic efforts continue.
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US forces boarded the Panamanian-flagged Veronica III overnight, attempting to evade US sanctions related to Iran and Venezuela. The vessel, involved in smuggling crude, was tracked from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean. This marks a continued effort by the US to control Venezuela's oil exports amid ongoing sanctions.
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Iran and the U.S. have renewed negotiations over Tehran's nuclear program, aiming to prevent conflict. The U.S. has sent a second aircraft carrier to the region and is preparing for possible military action if talks fail. Iran signals willingness to compromise for sanctions relief, but key issues remain unresolved.
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Australia is investing over $30 billion in a new shipyard to build nuclear submarines under the AUKUS pact, with a $3.9 billion down payment. The project aims to enhance long-range strike capabilities and create thousands of jobs, amid US review concerns.
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Otto, a veteran opposition figure in Uganda, advocates for national dialogue following recent elections, warning of public dissatisfaction and weakened opposition. Meanwhile, Nigeria's electoral commission faces pressure to enable real-time result uploads, and Tanzania's opposition leader remains detained after protests. These stories highlight ongoing political unrest across Africa.
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A bus carrying farm workers in Sao Paulo overturned early Monday after a tire burst, injuring multiple people. The vehicle was traveling from Maranhao to Santa Catarina for an apple harvest. The crash is under investigation, with previous similar incidents in the region raising concerns about road safety.
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Norwegian skier Johannes Høsflot Klaebo won his ninth gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics, becoming the most successful Winter Olympian in history. Federica Brignone secured her second gold for Italy, while Mikaela Shiffrin's medal drought continued with an 11th-place finish. Controversies also emerged in curling.
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Morocco is beginning to restore flood-affected areas after heavy rains displaced nearly 188,000 people and inundated 110,000 hectares. Authorities evacuated residents, released dam water, and plan to invest $330 million in infrastructure and support for affected communities.
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Students at the University of Cape Town and Cheikh Anta Diop University protested over financial issues, including unpaid stipends, accommodation shortages, and systemic inequalities. The protests led to campus closures, violence, and the death of a student in Dakar, highlighting ongoing economic and political tensions in both regions. Today’s date is Mon, 16 Feb 2026.
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Colombia's search unit confirmed the remains of Father Camilo Torres, a priest and rebel who disappeared in 1966, after forensic analysis. His remains were handed over to activists on the 60th anniversary of his death, marking a significant step in addressing past disappearances linked to conflict and armed groups.
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The UK government has amended the Crime and Policing Bill to require social media firms to automatically preserve user data after a child's death. This follows campaigns by bereaved families, including Ellen Roome, whose son died in 2022. The law aims to aid investigations into online challenges linked to youth suicides.
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Relatives of 34 Australians from 11 families traveled to Syria to escort them from Roj camp to Damascus, then to Australia. The operation marks the first repatriation this year amid ongoing tensions and camp closures. Most residents are women and children linked to IS, with many camps now under Syrian government control.
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A bomb exploded in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, injuring 12 and killing 2. The attack occurred near a police station, with suspicion falling on the Pakistani Taliban (TTP). The incident highlights ongoing violence linked to TTP activities and tensions with Afghanistan. Authorities are on high alert.
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A man in his 60s, detained since October, faces charges of aggravated procurement after allegedly exploiting his wife on a large scale. Prosecutors believe multiple suspects are involved, with more charges likely. The case highlights Sweden's strict laws against buying sex and procurement, with a trial scheduled for March 13, 2026.
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Japan's GDP grew by 0.1% quarter-on-quarter in October-December, marking its first positive growth in two quarters and a 1.1% increase for 2025, the highest since 2022. Private consumption rose, but exports declined, reflecting ongoing economic challenges.
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Muslims worldwide are preparing for the start of Ramadan, expected around February 18 or 19, depending on moon sightings. Authorities in different regions have announced varying start dates based on astronomical calculations and moon sightings, with most countries observing the month from February 19. Ramadan is a time for fasting, worship, and charity.
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As of February 2026, measles outbreaks are intensifying in England, the US, and Australia due to declining vaccination rates and rising vaccine hesitancy. London boroughs report under 80% MMR coverage, far below the 95% WHO target, leading to hospitalizations and confirmed cases. US states like South Carolina face their largest outbreaks in decades, while Australia sees rising cases linked to international travel and vaccine skepticism.
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Several US athletes at the Milan Winter Olympics expressed mixed feelings about representing the US amid political and social issues at home. Their comments sparked backlash from political figures, social media, and fellow athletes, raising questions about patriotism and free expression during international sports events.
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New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has introduced the City of Yes policy to boost housing, including zoning reforms and potential use of CUNY land for development. Critics question focus on private housing and neglect of public housing issues, amid debates over rent freezes and revenue strategies.
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Virginia Democrats are pushing to hold a referendum on mid-decade redistricting scheduled for April 21, aiming to expand their congressional seats ahead of the 2026 midterms. The effort faces legal challenges and court decisions, with the Virginia Supreme Court allowing the referendum to proceed while the legality of the maps remains under review.
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New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani did not attend the installation of Archbishop Ronald Hicks, the city’s new Catholic leader, instead posting a brief message on X. His absence has sparked criticism from the Catholic community and highlights ongoing tensions between city leadership and the church.
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Richard Tillman, 44, of San Jose, pleaded guilty to setting fire to a U.S. Post Office in July 2025. He rammed his vehicle into the building and set it ablaze, claiming to make a point to the U.S. government. No injuries occurred. Sentencing is scheduled for April 27, 2026.
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Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen at her Tucson home on January 31. A suspect wearing a ski mask and carrying a backpack was captured on surveillance. The FBI has increased its reward to $100,000 for information leading to her recovery or arrest of involved parties. DNA tests on a glove found near her home are pending confirmation.
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Multiple personal stories highlight health challenges, mental health struggles, and the impact of social media. A woman overcomes cancer and career doubts, a teen faces violent side effects from medication, and a mother fights to hold social media companies accountable for her daughter's death. These stories reveal resilience, medical risks, and societal issues.
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The US government announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status for roughly 1,400 Yemenis, citing improved conditions. Yemen remains embroiled in conflict, but the Biden administration's successor is reversing protections established during the Trump era, with Yemenis facing deportation or voluntary departure within 60 days.
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The Biden administration's vehicle emissions standards are effectively eliminated following the Trump administration's regulatory rollbacks, including the end of greenhouse gas regulations and credits for start-stop technology. California plans to sue to maintain stricter standards amid industry support for deregulation.