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On February 9-10, 2026, Brenton Tarrant, convicted for the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings, appealed his 2020 guilty pleas in New Zealand's Court of Appeal. He claims harsh prison conditions caused mental illness, impairing his ability to plead rationally. The five-day hearing will decide if his pleas are quashed, potentially leading to a new trial and sentence appeal.
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Hunter Hess, a US Olympic skier, expressed mixed feelings about representing the US at the Milan Winter Olympics, citing political disagreements and social issues at home. His 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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On February 9-10, 2026, opening arguments began in Los Angeles County Superior Court against Meta and Google's YouTube, accused of deliberately addicting children through platform design. The trial centers on a 19-year-old plaintiff, KGM, and could set precedent for hundreds of similar lawsuits. Meta denies wrongdoing, citing complex mental health factors and safeguards. The trial may last six to eight weeks, with executives like Mark Zuckerberg expected to testify.
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Cuba's energy crisis worsens as fuel shortages lead to flight suspensions, reduced banking hours, and halted public transport. Airlines like Air Canada suspend flights, citing fuel unavailability, while Cuban authorities implement strict rationing amid US sanctions and political pressure.
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Israeli officials announced new measures in the West Bank that facilitate land purchases by settlers, increase Israeli control over religious sites, and weaken Palestinian land rights. The move has drawn regional and international condemnation, with Palestinian leaders calling it de facto annexation. The developments come ahead of Netanyahu's US visit.
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Australian authorities are scrutinising Roblox amid reports of child grooming, explicit 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 and exposure to harmful content.
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A shipwreck north of Zuwara, Libya, has resulted in at least two survivors and multiple fatalities, with reports indicating over 375 deaths in January alone. The vessel, carrying African migrants, capsized after departing from Zawiya. The incident highlights ongoing dangers and exploitation faced by migrants crossing the Mediterranean, amid calls for safer migration routes.
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Armenia and the US signed a multibillion-dollar nuclear energy agreement, marking a shift from reliance on Russia. US Vice President Vance's visit also focused on regional peace and infrastructure projects, including a new transit corridor connecting Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey. The deal aims to diversify Armenia's energy sources amid regional tensions.
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Super Bowl 60 at Levi’s Stadium features a regional Californian menu with high-end dishes and local ingredients, reflecting the Bay Area’s culinary creativity. Meanwhile, street foods from Bangkok, Saigon, and Chengdu showcase vibrant, authentic flavors. A chef discusses the importance of sustainable UK seafood and canned fish innovations. The event highlights diverse global food cultures.
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BP and Shell reported significant drops in 2025 profits due to falling oil prices, with Shell's earnings down 22% and BP's down 16%. Both companies announced cost-saving measures, share buyback suspensions, and increased debt levels, amid ongoing market volatility and geopolitical tensions.
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Cuba's ongoing economic crisis worsens as US sanctions and cutoffs from Venezuela and Mexico lead to fuel shortages, blackouts, and transportation disruptions. The government has implemented rationing measures, including reduced work hours and limited fuel sales, amid warnings of a humanitarian crisis. The situation is reminiscent of the 1990s Special Period.
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As of early February 2026, Ukraine and SpaceX have implemented a whitelist system requiring registration of Starlink terminals to prevent unauthorized Russian military use. This move has disrupted Russian drone operations and frontline communications, significantly weakening Moscow's ability to coordinate attacks and forcing Russian forces to revert to older communication methods.
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American figure skater Malinin performed a backflip at the Olympics, earning praise and sparking discussions about racial bias. The move, known as the 'Bonaly flip,' was pioneered by Black athlete Surya Bonaly, whose legacy is now being re-evaluated amid the praise for Malinin's athleticism.
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Israeli President Isaac Herzog arrived in Australia amid protests over his visit, which supporters say offers community support after the Bondi Beach attack that killed 15. Critics accuse him of inciting genocide in Gaza, with police extending protest restrictions. The visit follows a deadly antisemitic shooting and rising tensions over Gaza policies.
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Israeli President Herzog's visit to Australia has sparked protests and violence in Sydney, with police arresting 27 protesters amid allegations of excessive force. The protests followed a mass shooting at Bondi Beach, where Herzog paid tribute to victims. Albanese condemned the violence, emphasizing peaceful expression.
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On February 8, 2026, Japan's first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, led the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to a historic two-thirds majority in the lower house, winning 316 of 465 seats. This victory grants her coalition with the Japan Innovation Party a supermajority of 352 seats, enabling significant legislative power. The win endorses her conservative economic and security agenda amid regional tensions with China and market concerns over fiscal policies.
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Somalia signed a military cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia, focusing on security, training, and defense. The move follows Somalia's recent diplomatic efforts amid regional tensions, including Israel's recognition of Somaliland and shifting Gulf alliances. The agreement aims to bolster Somalia's security capacity and regional stability.
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Prince William's first official trip to Saudi Arabia highlights strengthening diplomatic and trade relations, despite ongoing scrutiny over royal links to Jeffrey Epstein. The visit includes cultural and environmental engagements, with a focus on strategic partnerships and conservation efforts, amid tensions over human rights and past controversies.
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On February 10, 2026, President Trump threatened to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting Michigan and Ontario, demanding the US receive compensation and partial ownership. The bridge, funded by Canada and jointly owned with Michigan, is set to open this year. The dispute reflects escalating US-Canada trade tensions amid upcoming trade pact renegotiations.
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President Xi Jinping has removed China's highest-ranking military officials, including Gen. Zhang Youxia, amid a broad anti-corruption campaign. The purge impacts military leadership and raises concerns about China's military modernization and Taiwan invasion plans, as internal upheaval continues.
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Blue Origin announced TeraWave, a constellation of 5,408 satellites designed to deliver up to 6 terabits per second globally for enterprise and government use. Deployment begins in late 2027, positioning Blue Origin as a key player in space-based internet infrastructure alongside SpaceX and Amazon. The network targets critical data operations, not consumer internet.
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In Portugal's presidential election, moderate Socialist Seguro won a five-year term with around 70% of votes, defeating far-right candidate Ventura, who made it to the runoff with nearly 25%. The election highlights the rising influence of populism and the potential shift in Portugal's political landscape.
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UK local authorities warn that 80% will be effectively bankrupt within two years due to rising special educational needs costs. Councils call for debt write-offs and reforms amid projected deficits of up to £14bn. Meanwhile, US and UK initiatives focus on extended school hours and free breakfast programs to support disadvantaged families.
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As of February 10, 2026, northern Japan continues to grapple with record-breaking snowfall, with up to 2 meters of snow in some areas. Since January 20, at least 35 people have died and nearly 400 injured in snow-related incidents, including falls and roof collapses. The government has deployed Self-Defense Forces to assist with snow removal amid ongoing risks and a looming general election.
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Capgemini's US subsidiary, Capgemini Government Solutions, is under investigation following its contract with ICE for skip tracing services used in immigration enforcement. The deal, worth $4.8 million, has sparked criticism over human rights concerns after recent police shootings in Minneapolis. French authorities and lawmakers are demanding transparency amid growing controversy.
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Ethiopia has ordered Eritrea to withdraw troops amid accusations of border incursions and support for rebel groups. Relations have deteriorated since Ethiopia's peace deal with Tigray, with recent clashes raising fears of renewed conflict. Both sides deny the allegations, but tensions remain high.
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Since the ceasefire began in October 2025, violence continues in Gaza, with Israeli strikes killing over 530 Palestinians and several Israelis. Recent clashes include targeted attacks on Hamas and Islamic Jihad commanders, violations of the truce, and ongoing casualties. The Rafah crossing reopened, but tensions remain high.
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As of February 2026, the Global Sumud Flotilla is preparing its largest-ever mission to Gaza, involving over 100 boats and 1,000 activists from more than 100 countries. The flotilla aims to break Israel's blockade by delivering humanitarian aid and medical support, alongside a land convoy. Last year's mission was intercepted by Israeli forces, detaining over 450 activists including Mandla Mandela and Greta Thunberg.
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Recent heavy snowfall and unstable snowpack have caused multiple avalanches across the Alps, resulting in at least 11 deaths. Authorities warn of dangerous conditions, especially off-piste, amid ongoing winter storms. Rescuers advise caution and adherence to avalanche warnings.
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During the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, U.S. Vice President JD Vance and his wife faced jeers from the crowd, amid protests over U.S. immigration policies linked to ICE. Israeli athletes also faced boos, reflecting geopolitical tensions spilling into the Games.
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The UN reports ongoing violence in Sudan, especially in El-Fasher, with mass killings, sexual violence, and war crimes committed by RSF and Sudanese forces. Despite warnings, atrocities continue, raising fears of further escalation and regional instability. The UN calls for an arms embargo and accountability.
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A landmark trial in Los Angeles accuses Meta and Google of deliberately designing Instagram and YouTube to be addictive, especially targeting children. The case claims these platforms caused mental health issues, with testimonies from affected users and internal memos revealing profit-driven design choices. The trial is expected to last eight weeks.
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Ukraine plans to open 10 export centers across Europe in 2026 to sell its advanced drones and UAV technology, aiming to capitalize on wartime innovation. The move responds to a drone boom driven by the ongoing conflict with Russia, with international interest in Kyiv’s UAVs and anti-drone systems.
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U.S. Senator Marco Rubio is visiting Hungary and Slovakia to strengthen regional ties amid rising tensions between the U.S. and the EU. Meanwhile, Trump endorses Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi, highlighting ongoing U.S. involvement in foreign elections. These moves reflect shifting alliances and strategic interests.
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Former US President Donald Trump met with Honduran President Asfura at Mar-a-Lago, emphasizing security cooperation against cartels and migration. The meeting follows recent Honduran elections and Trump's controversial pardon of ex-president Hernandez, highlighting ongoing US-Honduras relations amid regional security concerns.
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A building in Tripoli's Bab al-Tabbaneh neighborhood collapsed, killing 14 and injuring eight. The incident highlights Lebanon's ongoing infrastructure neglect, with authorities planning evacuations of at-risk buildings amid public outrage and political fallout.
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The UAE welcomes a US-backed peace plan for Sudan amid ongoing conflict since April 2023. The plan includes a humanitarian truce and political transition, with international aid commitments from the US and UAE totaling $700 million. Fighting continues, with recent clashes and a drone attack in Kadugli highlighting the crisis.
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James Pearce, a Falcons rookie and NFL sack leader, was arrested in Doral, Florida, after fleeing police and crashing his car following a domestic dispute with WNBA player Rickea Jackson. He faces multiple charges, including aggravated battery and stalking, which could impact his NFL future.
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European countries including Spain, Greece, Britain, and France are debating stricter social media restrictions for minors, following Australia's December ban on under-16s. Governments cite concerns over mental health, hate speech, and disinformation, with legislation potentially passing this year to protect children online.
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Haiti's transitional council has stepped down after US-backed pressure, with Fils-Aime now leading amid ongoing gang violence and delayed elections. The US deployed warships to support stability efforts, as Haiti faces a political and security crisis with no elected president since 2021.
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Mexican authorities confirmed the death of five of ten workers kidnapped from a Canadian-run mine in Sinaloa. The bodies were discovered in a mass grave, with ongoing investigations into the motives and responsible factions, amid escalating cartel violence in the region.
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Rich Sparkle is launching joint ventures with top creators like Khaby Lame to develop infrastructure for livestream and short-form commerce in regions including the US, Middle East, and Southeast Asia. The model aims to align incentives and build sustainable digital economies beyond traditional brand sponsorships.
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Gunfire erupted near Guinea's presidential palace in Conakry, with security forces deploying around Kaloum. Witnesses reported automatic gunfire lasting over thirty minutes. The cause remains unclear, and authorities have yet to comment. The incident follows Guinea's December presidential election, won by Mamady Doumbouya amid criticism.
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Venezuela released at least 35 political prisoners on Sunday, including opposition figures Juan Pablo Guanipa and María Oropeza, following international pressure and a visit from UN human rights representatives. The government also announced plans to close the notorious El Helicoide prison and propose a broad amnesty law covering political violence since 1999.
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Sturla Holm Laegreid finished third in the Olympic biathlon but broke down emotionally after revealing he cheated on his partner six months ago. He expressed remorse and wished to share his feelings publicly, amid a week marked by personal regret and the death of a teammate.
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Cuba is experiencing a severe fuel shortage following US sanctions and the loss of Venezuelan oil. Russia and Mexico are discussing possible aid, while Cuba seeks to increase renewable energy. US threats of tariffs and diplomatic tensions have worsened the crisis, prompting emergency measures and international concern.
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Iran has seized two fuel tankers near Farsi Island, claiming they were smuggling fuel. The vessels' nationalities are unknown. The incident follows recent Iranian maritime confrontations and increased US naval presence amid regional tensions and US sanctions. The situation underscores ongoing instability in the Strait of Hormuz.
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Leqaa Kordia, a 33-year-old Palestinian woman in US detention, was hospitalized after a seizure but was discharged back to detention. Her family and legal team remain unaware of her current condition amid concerns over her health and detention conditions, which she describes as inhumane.
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Recent airline incidents highlight ongoing issues with flight disruptions, technical failures, and customer service. An easyJet flight from Edinburgh to Paris diverted due to a technical issue, while a Delta flight from New York to Tel Aviv turned back after a medical emergency. Airlines are adjusting routes amid safety concerns over Iran.
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A 15-year-old boy in Ufa, Russia, attacked students and police with a knife, shouting nationalist slogans and drawing a Nazi symbol. Four Indian students were injured, and the attacker is in critical condition. Authorities are investigating links to neo-Nazi groups and negligence by officials.
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A Starsky Aviation flight from Mogadishu to Gaalkacyo overran the runway and ended up on the shoreline, with no injuries reported. The aircraft was damaged, and an investigation into the cause is underway. All passengers and crew were safely evacuated today, February 10, 2026.
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A daylight armed robbery occurred on a highway in Puglia, Italy, involving a masked gang using explosives and gunfire to loot a security van. Two suspects have been arrested, but the total stolen amount remains unknown. The incident highlights ongoing threats to armored transport security in the region.
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French President Macron warns Europe against dependence on US and China, calling for stronger integration and strategic autonomy. He highlights the 'Greenland moment' as a wake-up call, urging EU leaders to diversify trade, deepen the single market, and pursue common borrowing to challenge US dollar dominance amid geopolitical shifts.
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Investors and experts are warning of an impending market crash amid signs of a bubble in stocks and commodities. While some see opportunities in gold and bonds, others caution against speculative risks driven by AI hype and geopolitical tensions. The story highlights contrasting views on the outlook for 2026.
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Indonesia is preparing up to 8,000 troops for a potential deployment in Gaza as part of a US-led peacekeeping force. The force aims to support Gaza's post-war transition, with Indonesia awaiting further details on the mandate and deployment terms. The initiative is linked to Trump’s Gaza peace plan and international negotiations.
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With Valentine's Day on February 14, 2026, flower companies are offering deals amid high demand. Most flowers arrive via Miami from Colombia and Ecuador, with prices rising due to tariffs and wages. Australians are encouraged to choose local, sustainable blooms to reduce environmental impact.
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Ilia Malinin, a 21-year-old American figure skater, performed the first legal backflip at the Winter Olympics since 1998, helping the US team win gold. He scored second in his event, showcasing his innovative skills and adjusting to Olympic pressure. Malinin is a rising star in figure skating.
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Israeli forces conducted a raid in southern Lebanon, arresting Atwi Atwi, a leader of al-Jamaa al-Islamiya, near the Israeli border. The operation follows ongoing Israeli strikes in Lebanon since the 2024 war with Hezbollah, with recent clashes resulting in civilian casualties and continued territorial disputes.
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Betty O'Hara, celebrated for her roles in 'Schitt's Creek' and 'Home Alone,' died on January 30 in Santa Monica. The cause was a pulmonary embolism linked to rectal cancer. She was 71 and is survived by her family. Tributes pour in from Hollywood.
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South Korea plans to raise medical school admissions from 3,058 to 3,548 in 2027, continuing phased increases until 2030 to bolster regional healthcare. The move follows a period of doctor strikes and political debate over healthcare capacity and quality.
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The Milan cauldron, suspended beneath the Arco della Pace, was revealed during the Olympics opening ceremony. It features a Leonardo-inspired design, incorporates sustainable materials, and is paired with a similar structure in Cortina. The event included a light show and emotional reactions from spectators, emphasizing Milan's cultural heritage.
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Negotiations between Iran and the US, mediated by Oman, have resumed over Iran's nuclear program amid heightened regional tensions. The US deployed its top military commander, and both sides signal cautious engagement. Israel and regional allies remain concerned about potential military escalation.
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Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is in Washington to present US President Trump with key principles for negotiations with Iran, emphasizing restrictions on missile programs and support for regional proxies amid ongoing US-Iran talks and regional tensions.
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Jacques Leveugle, a former educator, is under investigation in France for sexual assault of minors from 1967 to 2022, with 89 victims identified via a digital memoir. He also admitted to killing his mother and aunt, prompting a parallel murder inquiry. Authorities urge victims to come forward.
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Since late 2025, the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement in Minneapolis has escalated, resulting in the deaths of two US citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, by federal agents. The crackdown, marked by broad sweeps and militarized tactics, has sparked nationwide protests, legal challenges, and calls for de-escalation. New guidance now limits arrests to immigrants with criminal histories, and federal agents are being partially withdrawn from Minneapolis amid ongoing tensions.
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San Francisco teachers' strike has shut down all 120 public schools, affecting 50,000 students. The union demands a 9% pay increase and fully funded healthcare, citing financial pressures and low healthcare contributions. Negotiations resume today amid parent frustrations.
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The affidavit in Fulton County reveals ongoing investigations into claims about the 2020 election, focusing on alleged misuse of federal agencies and long-debunked election fraud theories. The search warrant targeted ballots and voting data, but officials say the allegations are based on false claims rejected by multiple authorities.
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Brazil and Turkey are advancing new laws to restrict minors' access to social media and online content. Brazil plans age-verification measures for platforms with inappropriate content, while Turkey proposes bans and content filtering. These efforts reflect growing international concern over children's digital safety.
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Iran's nuclear chief, Mohammad Eslami, indicated that Iran may dilute its 60% enriched uranium if sanctions are fully lifted. This move follows ongoing negotiations with the US and regional actors, amid concerns over Iran's nuclear ambitions and international sanctions. The decision hinges on diplomatic progress today, February 9, 2026.
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Target's new CEO Michael Fiddelke has publicly acknowledged the ongoing tensions in Minneapolis amid federal immigration enforcement, community protests, and economic disruptions following fatal shootings by immigration agents. The company faces internal pressure and community concerns as federal operations continue to impact local businesses and residents.
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Iraq introduced new tariffs on January 1 to reduce debt and diversify revenue, but traders and shopkeepers oppose them, citing increased costs, delays, and corruption. Protests and legal challenges have emerged, with authorities claiming revenue gains and efforts to unify border procedures.
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Eddie Bauer LLC, a historic outdoor apparel brand, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in New Jersey, risking the closure of around 200 stores in the US and Canada. The move follows years of financial struggles, ownership changes, and shifting consumer preferences. Outside North America, operations remain unaffected.
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Law enforcement intensifies efforts to verify leads in the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie amid concerns over AI-generated media spreading false narratives. Experts warn that AI manipulation complicates investigations and public trust, with recent incidents highlighting the risks of misinformation in high-profile cases.
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California lawmakers are advancing a bill to expand remote work for state employees, backed by a union and aimed at increasing transparency on cost savings. The bill challenges Governor Newsom's return-to-office mandate, highlighting ongoing debates over remote work, fiscal savings, and political influence in the state.
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, CMS director, publicly advocates for measles vaccination as South Carolina faces its largest outbreak since 2000, with over 900 cases. His comments contrast with previous skepticism from officials like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., amid rising vaccine distrust and declining immunization rates.
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A Hawker Beechcraft BE-36 made an emergency landing on Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville, Georgia, after engine trouble. The plane struck three cars, causing minor injuries to two people. No fatalities occurred, and the pilot successfully navigated the crash onto a busy road, avoiding serious harm.
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The US has intensified efforts to seize Venezuelan oil tankers following the January raid that ousted Maduro. Recent operations include a maritime interdiction of the Panamanian-flagged tanker Aquila II, which was operating in defiance of US sanctions. The US military has also conducted strikes on vessels linked to drug trafficking, resulting in fatalities. These actions aim to control Venezuela's oil exports and pressure Cuba economically.
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Since early 2026, reports have emerged of federal immigration agents using disguises, masks, and undercover tactics in Minneapolis, raising concerns about transparency, safety, and civil rights. Incidents include impersonations, violent confrontations, and deadly shootings, prompting calls for policy reforms and increased oversight.
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A group of 19 Theravada Buddhist monks has completed a 2,300-mile walk across the U.S. from Texas to Washington, advocating for peace and compassion. Their journey, which began in October 2025, has garnered widespread public support and online attention, emphasizing mindfulness and non-violence amid political divisions.
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Ronald Hicks was installed as the 11th archbishop of New York on February 6, 2026. The ceremony was attended by many religious and civic leaders, but New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani did not attend, instead posting a brief message on X. The mayor's absence drew criticism from the Catholic community and observers, highlighting tensions between city leadership and the church.
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Recent reports show the US experiencing its lowest snow cover in decades, driven by record warmth and climate change. The West faces a severe snow drought, impacting water supplies and increasing wildfire risks, while the East endures cold and snow. The situation highlights ongoing climate challenges.
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Major US medical organizations now recommend delaying gender-related surgeries for minors until age 19, citing insufficient evidence and potential risks. This marks a significant shift from previous support, amid ongoing legal and political debates over pediatric gender care.
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Recent data indicates a decline in job openings and sluggish hiring, with December vacancies at their lowest since September 2020. Despite strong GDP growth, the labor market remains weak, raising questions about future employment trends amid economic uncertainties.