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On February 12, 2026, Russia fully blocked WhatsApp, accusing Meta of non-compliance with Russian laws. The Kremlin urged users to switch to MAX, a state-backed messaging app criticized for surveillance risks. This move is part of Russia's broader internet control strategy amid ongoing restrictions on foreign platforms like Telegram, Facebook, and Instagram.
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On Tuesday, Feb 11, 2026, a mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia left nine dead, including the suspected female shooter, and 27 injured. Two additional victims were found dead at a nearby residence linked to the attack. Police responded within two minutes; the motive remains under investigation.
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On February 9, 2026, President Trump threatened to block the opening of the $4.6 billion Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario. He demands the U.S. be "fully compensated" and seeks at least half ownership, citing unfair treatment by Canada amid escalating trade tensions. The bridge, funded by Canada and jointly owned with Michigan, is set to open this year.
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Cyclone Gezani made landfall in Madagascar with winds over 195 kph, causing at least 20 deaths, severe damage in Toamasina, and widespread flooding. The storm is weakening but poses ongoing risks, with authorities calling for international aid amid repeated cyclone impacts this season.
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Bangladesh's first election since 2024's protests is underway, with over 127 million voters participating. The vote follows the ousting of Sheikh Hasina's government amid unrest, with Tarique Rahman of BNP and an Islamist coalition as main contenders. Results are expected tomorrow.
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Turkish and Greek leaders expressed willingness to resolve longstanding maritime disputes during talks in Ankara, emphasizing open dialogue and international law. Despite positive rhetoric, disagreements over territorial waters and regional issues persist, with recent moves by Greece to extend its waters and Turkey's opposition. Migration and regional cooperation also discussed.
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Unsealed affidavits reveal the FBI's investigation into alleged election irregularities in Fulton County, Georgia, initiated from a referral by Kurt Olsen, a Trump ally involved in election denial efforts. The investigation focuses on claims long debunked, with recent focus on voting machine vulnerabilities in Puerto Rico's 2024 elections.
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South Korea's National Intelligence Service reports that Kim Jong Un's daughter, believed to be Kim Ju Ae, is entering the stage of official succession. Ahead of North Korea's Workers' Party Congress later this month, her increasing public appearances and possible policy input signal her rise as heir apparent, marking a historic shift in the male-dominated leadership tradition.
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Israeli authorities have charged a civilian and reservist with betting on military operations via the U.S.-based prediction market Polymarket, based on classified information. The suspects face serious security and legal charges, with investigations revealing bets placed before Israel's planned strike on Iran. No operational damage was caused, but the case highlights ethical breaches and security risks.
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On February 3, 2026, a US F-35C fighter jet shot down an Iranian Shahed-139 drone that aggressively approached the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea. Hours later, Iranian forces harassed a US-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. These incidents occurred amid preparations for nuclear talks between the US and Iran, scheduled for Friday in Oman.
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Gisèle Pelicot recounts her harrowing experience of being drugged, raped by her husband and dozens of men, and filmed over nearly a decade. Her 2024 trial led to her husband's 20-year prison sentence and a national reckoning on sexual violence in France.
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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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A mass shooting at Tumbler Ridge High School in British Columbia has resulted in nine deaths and 25 injuries. The suspected female gunman died of a self-inflicted wound. The incident has deeply affected the local community and the Canadian Olympic team, which was preparing for the Winter Games.
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As of February 2026, Ukraine and SpaceX have implemented a whitelist system requiring registration of Starlink terminals to block 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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On February 12, 2026, Panama's Supreme Court upheld a January ruling declaring the concession held by Hong Kong's CK Hutchison subsidiary to operate the Panama Canal's Balboa and Cristóbal ports unconstitutional. The decision halts Chinese management of these strategic terminals, temporarily transferring operations to Denmark's A.P. Moller-Maersk amid ongoing legal disputes and geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China.
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U.S. forces have completed their orderly withdrawal from the strategic Al-Tanf base in Syria, transferring control to Syrian forces in coordination with the Syrian government. The move follows a deal with the Syrian regime and shifts U.S. military focus to regional threats, particularly ISIS, with about 1,000 troops remaining in Syria.
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In early February 2026, Japan's deep-sea drilling vessel Chikyu successfully retrieved sediment rich in rare earth elements from nearly 6,000 meters beneath the Pacific near Minamitorishima. This world-first extraction aims to reduce Japan's reliance on China for critical minerals essential to technology and defense amid rising geopolitical tensions.
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U.S. officials, including high-ranking envoy Wright, visited Venezuela amid efforts to restore relations and boost oil production. The U.S. lifted sanctions, and Venezuela's government aims to increase oil output, signaling a significant shift after Maduro's ousting and recent reforms to attract foreign investment.
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The Nebraska Supreme Court rejected a request to block the federal government from accessing voter information, including sensitive data, amid ongoing legal disputes and concerns over privacy and election security. Nebraska officials are providing data to the Justice Department, which seeks to assess compliance with federal voting laws.
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Ilia Malinin performed a backflip at the 2026 Winter Olympics, drawing praise and sparking discussions about racial bias. The move, called the 'Bonaly flip,' was pioneered by Surya Bonaly, a Black athlete whose legacy is now being re-evaluated amid the praise for Malinin's athleticism and the sport's evolving acceptance of diversity.
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Italy's cabinet approved a new migration bill that grants authorities powers to impose naval blockades on migrant ships, expand expulsion criteria, and restart offshore processing centers. The bill, pending parliamentary approval, aligns with recent EU migration policies and aims to curb migrant arrivals amid ongoing legal and humanitarian debates.
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As of February 2026, 80% of English local authorities face effective bankruptcy due to soaring special educational needs (SEN) spending, with deficits projected to reach £14bn by 2028. Councils urge government debt write-offs and systemic reforms. Meanwhile, UK and US initiatives expand free breakfast clubs and extended school hours to support disadvantaged families amid rising education costs.
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Dutch prosecutors allege Louis Vuitton failed to verify customer identities amid a case involving a woman accused of laundering over 2 million euros through luxury purchases and reshipping goods to China. The company reached an out-of-court settlement amid ongoing investigations.
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The New START treaty expired on February 5, 2026, leaving the US and Russia without binding limits on their nuclear arsenals for the first time in over 50 years. Moscow signals willingness to respect limits if the US does, while both sides seek new agreements amid fears of an arms race.
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Recent incidents involve Israeli soldiers and Italian police officers detained and mistreated in Palestinian territory. The Israeli military has suspended involved soldiers pending investigation, while Italy protests the treatment of its officers, highlighting ongoing tensions and diplomatic strains in the region.
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As of February 12, 2026, Brenton Tarrant, convicted for the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings, is appealing 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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The FAA has lifted the 10-day flight ban over El Paso, Texas, citing no threat to aviation. All flights are resuming after a temporary closure for security reasons, which caused significant disruptions and stranded travelers. The closure did not affect Mexican airspace.
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Francesca Albanese, a UN special rapporteur on Palestinian rights, made controversial remarks linking Israel to a 'common enemy' enabling Gaza's 'genocide.' France and Germany condemned her, calling for her removal amid accusations of bias and antisemitism. Albanese denies calling Israel the 'enemy of humanity.'
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Violence broke out in Yemen’s Shabwa governorate as supporters of the Southern Transitional Council stormed a government building in Ataq, leading to casualties. Security forces responded with live fire, resulting in deaths and injuries amid ongoing tensions over southern independence and regional influence. The incident highlights Yemen’s fragile stability.
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Multiple athletes at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics have experienced medals detaching during celebrations. Organizers are investigating the issue, which appears linked to athletes jumping or celebrating vigorously. The problem has affected medals from the U.S., Germany, and other countries, raising concerns about medal quality and presentation.
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U.S. Vice President Vance visited the Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan, honoring victims. An initial social media post claiming he was recognizing genocide was deleted after staff error. The visit aims to support regional peace efforts amid tense Turkey-Armenia relations.
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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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Over 1,100 Afghans, including civilians and former military women, are held at Qatar's Camp As Sayliyah. The US and Qatar face criticism over payments offered for voluntary repatriation, amid concerns about coercion and safety ahead of the facility's closure at the end of March.
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Switzerland's right-wing Swiss People's Party has gathered enough signatures to hold a referendum on June 14, 2026, to limit the population to 10 million by 2050. The proposal aims to curb migration and overpopulation, risking conflicts with EU agreements and economic stability.
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Since the October 2025 ceasefire, violence continues in Gaza with Israeli strikes killing over 530 Palestinians and several Israelis. Recent incidents include targeted attacks, violations of the truce, and casualties on both sides. The Rafah crossing reopened, but tensions remain high as Israel and Hamas accuse each other of breaches.
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The US has publicly accused China of conducting nuclear explosive tests, including preparations for tests with yields in the hundreds of tons, amid the expiration of the US-Russia New START treaty. The US claims China used decoupling to hide activities, raising concerns over nuclear transparency and arms control.
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The European Court of Justice is urged to annul the decision to release €10.2 billion to Hungary, citing incomplete judicial reforms. The European Commission had frozen the funds over concerns about democratic backsliding and corruption, but a legal opinion suggests the release was premature. The case highlights ongoing tensions over rule of law in the EU.
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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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Newly released Epstein documents show contacts with Russian officials, including attempts to meet Putin, and suggest possible links to Russian intelligence. The files also detail Epstein's efforts to influence Russian and US elites, raising questions about his role and connections. Today’s date is Thu, 12 Feb 2026.
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As of February 10, Cuba faces a severe jet fuel shortage due to U.S. sanctions blocking oil supplies from Venezuela and Mexico. Airlines including Russia's Rossiya and Canada's Air Canada have suspended or limited flights, prompting evacuation plans for tourists. Cuba's energy crisis has led to widespread power outages, transport cuts, and economic disruptions, with Moscow pledging support amid escalating tensions.
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Pilots' unions Vereinigung Cockpit and UFO called 24-hour strikes at Lufthansa, causing widespread cancellations at Frankfurt and Munich. The airline expects to restore normal operations by Friday after disputes over pensions and negotiations. Passengers are being rebooked onto partner airlines.
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Cuba's humanitarian situation worsens amid US sanctions, loss of Venezuelan oil, and international tensions. Mexico and Russia discuss aid options, while Cuba plans renewable energy measures. US threats of tariffs and diplomatic pressure escalate the crisis, prompting emergency responses and global concern.
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Taiwan's president affirms strong US ties amid China's warnings on arms sales. US and China exchange diplomatic signals, with Taiwan preparing for increased military pressure and the UK weighing Chinese energy investments amid geopolitical tensions. The story highlights escalating security concerns and diplomatic maneuvers.
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Argentina's Congress approved a labour reform after over 13 hours of debate, easing hiring rules, extending work hours, and limiting strike rights. The move sparked protests and clashes with police, with unions opposing the changes seen as threatening worker protections. The reform now heads to the lower house for final approval.
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Recent data shows China and India reduced coal power last year amid rising renewables, while the US expands gas capacity driven by AI data centers, raising climate concerns. Romania's decoupling from pollution continues, contrasting with China's coal buildout and US fossil fuel surge.
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Recent developments highlight shifts in digital content creation, with creators forming long-term joint ventures and platforms emphasizing ethical AI. These changes aim to foster sustainable growth, authenticity, and cross-border collaboration, reflecting evolving industry models and regional investments as of February 12, 2026.
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Cambodian authorities are facing a surge of scam compound closures and mass departures, creating a humanitarian crisis. Over 100,000 scam workers have fled, many traumatized and left without support, amid ongoing crackdowns and international pressure. Shelters are overwhelmed, and victims struggle to return home.
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A Russian-made Shahed drone struck a family home in Ukraine's Kharkiv region, killing four, including two children, and injuring the mother, who is pregnant. The attack occurred overnight, amid ongoing hostilities, with Ukraine retaliating with its own drone strikes. The incident highlights the ongoing toll of the conflict.
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Multiple countries are advancing legislation to restrict minors' access to social media and online content. France, Australia, Brazil, and Turkey are proposing or implementing measures such as age verification, bans, and content filtering to protect children from harmful digital environments. These efforts reflect growing international concern over online safety for minors.
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On February 12, 2026, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under President Trump formally repealed the 2009 'endangerment finding' that classified greenhouse gases as threats to public health. This move, described as the largest deregulatory action in US history, removes federal greenhouse gas emissions standards for vehicles and threatens broader climate regulations, sparking legal challenges and environmental concerns.
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Nancy Guthrie, 84, was kidnapped from her Tucson home on January 31. Authorities released images of a masked, armed individual tampering with her doorbell camera. The case has garnered national attention, with public appeals and ongoing investigations. Guthrie's family urges help to find her, believing she is still alive.
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On February 11, 2026, the FAA abruptly closed airspace around El Paso International Airport for 10 days citing "special security reasons," grounding all flights within a 10-nautical-mile radius. Less than 10 hours later, the FAA lifted the restrictions, stating no threat to commercial aviation. The closure was linked to counter-drone operations against Mexican cartel drones near the border.
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Since the US-brokered ceasefire in October 2025, over 570 Palestinians and several Israeli soldiers have died amid ongoing Israeli strikes and Hamas attacks. Key ceasefire elements like Hamas disarmament, border crossings, and reconstruction remain stalled. The US-led peace plan faces resistance, with Israel preparing for possible renewed military action and international efforts to stabilize Gaza advancing slowly.
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European leaders are debating the bloc's future amid divisions on deregulation, strategic industry protection, and economic reform. The discussions, ahead of a late March summit, highlight contrasting visions—some favoring deregulation and trade expansion, others prioritizing industry protection and budget reforms. The debate reflects broader tensions over EU competitiveness and sovereignty.
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Authorities in Arizona detained a suspect during a traffic stop linked to the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, 84, last seen near Tucson. Surveillance footage shows a masked, armed individual outside her home. The FBI and local police are searching for her captors, who may have tampered with security cameras. Guthrie's whereabouts remain unknown.
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Belgium’s sovereign wealth fund SFPIM purchased EU buildings in Brussels for around €900 million in 2024. An investigation led by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office is examining the sale, with police conducting searches of EU commission premises. The European Commission affirms procedural compliance and promises cooperation.
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Recent heavy snowfall and unstable snowpack have caused multiple avalanches across the Alps, resulting in at least 11 deaths. Authorities emphasize that managed ski areas remain safe, but backcountry conditions are hazardous. Rescuers advise caution and adherence to avalanche warnings amid ongoing winter storms.
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Measles cases increased significantly in early 2026, with over 1,000 new cases in the first three weeks across the Americas and ongoing outbreaks in Israel and Europe. Vaccination gaps and misinformation continue to hinder efforts to control the disease, which remains highly contagious and deadly without immunization.
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Recent travel incidents include a diverted easyJet flight from Edinburgh, a medical emergency causing a flight to turn back from JFK, and a new AI-powered platform for smarter booking. Meanwhile, airlines are offering stopover programs and adjusting routes amid geopolitical concerns. These stories highlight ongoing challenges and innovations in travel.
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Portugal's presidential election has highlighted a shift to the right, with Socialist Seguro winning a five-year term amid a strong showing by far-right candidate Ventura. The election underscores growing populist support and political instability, with implications for Portugal's future and European politics.
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Multiple articles reveal that days before Trump's 2025 return to office, a senior Emirati official invested $500 million in a Trump-linked crypto firm, raising questions about foreign influence, potential conflicts of interest, and US policy reversals on AI chip exports to the UAE.
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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced plans to deploy the military in Gauteng and Western Cape to combat organized crime, which he described as the most immediate threat to democracy. The move follows rising violence, illegal mining, and a high homicide rate in 2025.
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The US has issued a license to explore oil in Venezuela, while Russia's investments face US sanctions and US-backed actions. Moscow and Caracas maintain strategic ties, but US pressure threatens Russia's energy interests in the country amid geopolitical tensions.
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Cristiano Ronaldo has missed recent matches at Al-Nassr amid dissatisfaction with club management and transfer activity. Meanwhile, rival Karim Benzema's move to Al Hilal intensifies league competition. The transfer window closed with ongoing disputes over squad strengthening and club funding, highlighting tensions within Saudi football's top clubs.
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Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu met with US President Trump in Washington amid rising regional tensions. They focused on Iran's nuclear program, missile capabilities, and regional support for proxies. The meeting occurred as US-Iran talks in Oman continue, with both sides signaling cautious engagement.
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Recent data shows a deepening economic split, with high-income households increasing wealth and spending, while lower-income groups face higher inflation and stagnating wages. The US and Japan exhibit contrasting but related trends, highlighting growing inequality amid economic uncertainty as of February 11, 2026.
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Syria's government has regained control of key oil fields, including al-Omar, after years of conflict and neglect. The Syrian Petroleum Company restarted production, aiming to boost the economy, but infrastructure and sanctions pose ongoing challenges. The sector's recovery could reshape Syria's economic future.
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Syria and Lebanon signed a treaty to transfer over 300 prisoners, aiming to improve relations after years of tension. The deal, signed in Beirut, addresses longstanding issues including missing persons and prisoner transfers, amid recent diplomatic efforts following Syria's political changes. Implementation begins soon.
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Maria Lucia Amaral resigned as Portugal's minister after citing an inability to continue due to personal and political reasons, amid ongoing severe winter storms causing floods, landslides, and infrastructure damage. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro will temporarily assume her role. The storms have led to criticism over the government's slow response, especially during Storm Kristin in late January.
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Lebanese authorities prepare to move into the second phase of disarming Hezbollah, focusing on areas north of the Litani River. The army reports progress south of the Litani, but Israel remains skeptical, citing ongoing strikes and occupation. Regional tensions persist amid US and European diplomatic efforts.
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Swedish skier Elis Lundholm, who was assigned female at birth and identifies as male, competed in women's moguls at the Milano Cortina Games. NBC misgendered him during coverage, but he remains the first openly transgender athlete at a Winter Olympics, competing under IOC rules. He finished 25th.
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Ilia Malinin, the 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. The story highlights his rising prominence and the evolving sport.
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Recent reports reveal a surge in state-sponsored cyber-espionage targeting defense companies and personnel across Europe, the US, and Ukraine. Hackers impersonate employees, exploit vulnerabilities in hiring processes, and conduct targeted attacks, raising concerns over national security and industrial integrity amid geopolitical tensions.
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U.S. President Trump’s interest in Greenland has sparked NATO discussions on Arctic security. NATO is planning an enhanced vigilance mission called 'Arctic Sentry' to address concerns, with Britain increasing defense spending and exploring private investment to bolster Arctic readiness. Details remain scarce, but coordination is underway.
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Norway's authorities are investigating prominent figures, including Thorbjorn Jagland, over alleged corruption linked to Jeffrey Epstein. The probe follows the release of US files revealing contacts with Epstein, plans to visit his properties, and possible receipt of gifts or favors. Norway seeks to revoke immunity for some officials.
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Recent articles highlight advances in AI and robotic surgery, including remote brain surgery in Saudi Arabia, robotic cancer procedures in the UK, and AI-driven diagnosis in Turkey. These innovations are improving precision, recovery times, and access to complex surgeries worldwide.
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France is distributing targeted fertility information to 29-year-olds as part of a 16-point plan to address declining birth rates and infertility. The initiative includes increasing egg-freezing centers and fertility education, amid criticism that broader social and economic factors may be more effective solutions.
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Rebels briefly seized Uvira in eastern Congo in December, prompting a military response involving private security contractors linked to the US. The operation aimed to recapture the city, with US-backed forces supporting Congolese troops amid ongoing tensions over mineral-rich territories.
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Oman facilitated recent talks between Iran and the U.S., signaling a potential diplomatic path despite ongoing military tensions. The U.S. considers expanding military presence in the region, while Iran demands sanctions relief and nuclear rights. Next negotiations are pending, with regional security at stake.
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Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley's Barbados Labour Party secured a decisive victory in the latest election, winning all 30 seats in Parliament. Mottley emphasized her commitment to improving healthcare, safety, and transportation, and plans to be sworn in soon. The opposition criticized security and infrastructure issues.
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Ukrainian drones targeted Russian energy infrastructure, striking a refinery in Komi and another in Volgograd. The Ukhta refinery in Komi was hit, causing a fire but no injuries. The attack is part of Ukraine's ongoing campaign against Russian energy assets amid the conflict.
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The US imposed sanctions on a Lebanese gold exchange linked to Hezbollah, targeting its financial support from Iran. The move aims to cut Hezbollah's cash flow amid ongoing tensions following Israeli strikes and Lebanon's disarmament efforts. The sanctions freeze assets and criminalize transactions with the targeted entities.
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China expects a record 9.5 billion trips during the Lunar New Year holiday, driven by longer holiday duration and increased domestic and international travel. While outbound travel to destinations like Thailand and Russia rises, travel to Japan declines sharply amid political tensions.
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Kenya's prosecution has charged Paul Mackenzie and others with organized criminal activity, radicalization, and facilitating terrorism related to the deaths of over 52 people at Kwa Binzaro. The case links to the broader cult disaster in Shakahola Forest, where over 400 bodies have been recovered since 2025. Mackenzie denies the allegations, and the next court hearing is scheduled for March 4.
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U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has announced the conclusion of Operation Metro Surge, a large-scale immigration enforcement effort in Minnesota that began in December. The operation led to over 4,000 arrests, including many without criminal records. Officials say the operation has made Minnesota less of a sanctuary state, but it faced political backlash and protests.
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A 17-year-old student in Songkhla used a stolen police firearm to shoot and kill a teacher, Sasiphat Sinsamosorn, at Patongprathankiriwat School. The suspect, with a history of substance abuse, also injured a female student before being detained. The incident highlights ongoing issues with gun violence in Thailand.
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Ofcom decided not to investigate complaints about a GB News interview with Donald Trump, despite claims that the broadcast contained misleading statements and lacked challenge. Critics argue the decision undermines broadcast standards, while Ofcom maintains the surrounding panel provided alternative perspectives.
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President Trump and Netanyahu met at the White House to discuss Iran's nuclear negotiations amid regional tensions. Trump emphasized continuing talks, while Netanyahu pushed for inclusion of missile and regional support issues. Both leaders aim to shape Iran policy amid ongoing regional instability.
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Egypt's government has announced a cabinet reshuffle affecting 13 portfolios, focusing on economic leadership. Key appointments include economists from the World Bank and financial regulators. The move aims to address ongoing economic challenges worsened by regional conflicts and external shocks, with the new government expected to be sworn in soon.
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Imran Khan's health has worsened in detention, with reports of severe vision loss. A court-ordered medical examination is underway, amid protests from his party over treatment and access to medical care. The case highlights concerns over human rights and political repression in Pakistan.
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Two recent aircraft incidents involved emergency landings: an Arik Air Boeing 737 in Nigeria with a destroyed engine, and a Starsky Aviation flight in Somalia that overran the runway on landing. Both flights were evacuated safely, with investigations ongoing into the causes.
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Israel's December 2025 recognition of Somaliland has heightened regional tensions, drawing criticism from the African Union and Somalia. Somaliland seeks broader recognition, while Somalia vows to oppose any Israeli military presence. The move impacts regional stability and international diplomacy in the Horn of Africa.
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A landmark trial in Los Angeles accuses Meta and YouTube of designing platforms to be addictive, especially targeting children. The case alleges these platforms caused mental health harm, with internal memos and user testimonies highlighting profit-driven, addictive features. The trial is expected to last six to eight weeks.
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Russia faces a shortfall of at least 2.3 million workers, worsened by the Ukraine war. With Central Asian workers declining, Moscow is increasingly recruiting Indian workers, with permits surging from 5,000 in 2021 to nearly 72,000 last year, reflecting stronger ties and economic shifts.
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Congolese President Tshisekedi offers U.S. companies access to eastern Congo’s mineral wealth, valued at $24 trillion, seeking U.S. support against rebels and for infrastructure. The move intensifies US-China competition over critical minerals amid regional instability and domestic opposition.
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A Seattle police officer was driving at 74 mph responding to a drug overdose when he hit Jaahnavi Kandula, a student crossing the street. The city agreed to a $20 million settlement, amid outrage over comments suggesting her life had 'limited value.' The officer was fired, and the case sparked protests and diplomatic concern.
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The Philippines emphasizes calm diplomatic responses amid maritime tensions with China, while reaffirming its commitment to defend its sovereignty in the South China Sea. U.S.-Philippine relations strengthen, with increased military cooperation and calls for better ties with China for economic reasons.
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The FAA temporarily closed airspace over El Paso for 10 days following a drone incident, later revealed to involve a party balloon. The closure caused flight cancellations and community disruption, with officials citing security concerns and a dispute with the Pentagon. The order was lifted within hours amid confusion.
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Recent AI developments have triggered sharp declines in UK and US stocks, especially in legal, data, and software sectors. Major firms like Relx and CBRE face investor fears over AI-driven obsolescence, despite strong financial results and long-term growth forecasts. The market remains volatile amid ongoing AI investment plans.
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The UN reports five attempted assassinations last year targeting Syria's president, interior, and foreign ministers. The attacks, linked to ISIL front groups, highlight ongoing instability and threats in Syria, especially in Aleppo and Daraa, amid US military responses and detention challenges.