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Brenton Tarrant, convicted of the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings, is appealing his guilty pleas and life sentence, claiming his mental health was compromised by prison conditions. The Court of Appeal in Wellington will hear five days of evidence on his mental state at the time of his plea. The case could return to trial if his appeal succeeds.
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Thailand's general election results show a significant shift, with conservative Bhumjaithai leading over the expected progressive People's Party. The election follows a border conflict with Cambodia and a referendum on constitutional reform, highlighting ongoing political instability and nationalist sentiments. Coalition talks are imminent.
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On February 8, 2026, the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots 29-13 at Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, to claim their second Super Bowl title. The Seahawks' defense dominated, with kicker Jason Myers setting a Super Bowl record with five field goals. Patriots quarterback Drake Maye struggled under pressure, while Bad Bunny delivered a historic halftime show entirely in Spanish, drawing criticism from former President Trump.
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As of February 9, 2026, Canada and France have opened consulates in Nuuk, Greenland, reinforcing diplomatic support amid ongoing tensions following U.S. President Donald Trump's earlier threats to acquire the island. Greenlanders express anxiety over sovereignty and climate change, while Denmark, Canada, and European allies seek cooperative Arctic security arrangements with the U.S. and NATO.
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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 lawyer reporting her deteriorating condition and ongoing detention since December 2025.
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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 a strong mandate to pursue conservative economic reforms, bolster national defense, and potentially revise Japan's constitution amid regional tensions, especially with China.
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Israel has approved new measures easing land purchases and increasing control in the West Bank, prompting widespread condemnation from Palestinian leaders, neighboring countries, and international bodies. The move aims to deepen Israeli roots and prevent a Palestinian state, escalating tensions in the region.
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A significant increase in mushroom poisonings in California has resulted in over three dozen cases since November, including four deaths and three liver transplants. The toxic death cap mushroom, often mistaken for edible varieties, is spreading due to weather conditions. Authorities advise avoiding wild foraging and purchasing mushrooms only from trusted sources.
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On the first full day of Italy's Winter Olympics in Milan, protests turned violent with railway sabotage and clashes between police and demonstrators. Thousands protested environmental and social concerns, while sabotage caused train delays. Authorities launched a terrorism investigation amid international criticism.
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Legal proceedings against Meta, YouTube, TikTok, and Snap have started in Los Angeles, accusing platforms of deliberately designing features to addict children and harm their mental health. The case centers on a 19-year-old plaintiff, KGM, and could influence future lawsuits. The trial lasts six to eight weeks, with executives like Mark Zuckerberg expected to testify.
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Recent snowstorms have created dangerous avalanche conditions across the Alpine region bordering France, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy. Multiple fatalities occurred over the weekend, with rescue efforts ongoing. Authorities advise caution and delaying backcountry excursions until snowpack stabilizes. U.S. skier Lindsey Vonn was also rescued after a crash.
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The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan are overshadowed by political protests. US Vice President JD Vance was booed during the opening ceremony amid protests over US immigration policies linked to ICE. Israeli athletes also faced boos, reflecting regional tensions and US foreign policy controversies.
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Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, led by Sanae Takaichi, secured a landslide victory in the snap election, gaining at least 310 seats in the lower house. The election, called after three months in office, boosts her conservative agenda on defense, security, and immigration amid regional tensions.
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Multiple protests took place in Milan during the Olympics, focusing on environmental concerns, social issues, and political tensions. Demonstrators clashed with police, with some violence reported. The protests included anti-Israel sentiments and opposition to US security measures, amid broader social unrest linked to the Games.
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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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A five-year-old Ecuadorian boy, Liam Conejo Ramos, and his father were detained by US immigration authorities in Minnesota, sparking protests. The government seeks to deport them amid allegations of expedited removal, despite their legal entry and ongoing asylum case. The case highlights tensions over immigration enforcement tactics.
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Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show highlighted Puerto Rican identity through symbolic imagery, celebrating cultural pride and political resilience. His performance drew mixed reactions, with some critics questioning his U.S. citizenship, but it ultimately showcased Puerto Rico's influence and the power of visual storytelling in modern performances.
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Former President Trump has publicly endorsed Japan's first female prime minister, Takaichi, and Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán, highlighting their leadership and regional security. These endorsements reflect his active involvement in foreign elections, emphasizing strategic alliances and ideological alignment.
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Cuba is experiencing a critical fuel shortage due to U.S. sanctions and cutoffs from Venezuela and Mexico. The crisis has led to widespread power outages, transportation disruptions, and suspension of major events, worsening an already strained economy and tourism sector.
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Recent articles detail ongoing efforts to improve education and childcare in the UK and US. These include free breakfast programs, extended school hours, and new funding for schools, aimed at supporting disadvantaged children, addressing funding crises, and improving educational outcomes amid staffing and financial challenges.
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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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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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Japan's recent election victory under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi signals a shift towards a more assertive defense stance, especially in response to Chinese threats over Taiwan. Takaichi's hawkish policies and Japan's regional alliances aim to counter Chinese military provocations, amid Beijing's economic and military reprisals.
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Since the ceasefire in October 2025, violence has continued in Gaza, with Israeli airstrikes killing over 530 Palestinians and several Israelis. Recent incidents include attacks on Israeli troops, targeted strikes on Hamas infrastructure, and ongoing casualties, highlighting the fragile state of the truce amid accusations of violations from both sides.
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Several US athletes at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics have publicly expressed mixed feelings about representing the US amid political tensions, particularly criticizing US immigration policies and the Trump administration. Their comments sparked backlash from political figures and social media, raising questions about the role of athletes in political discourse during international events.
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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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Israeli President Isaac Herzog arrived in Australia for a five-day visit to support the Jewish community following the December 14 Bondi Beach shooting that killed 15. His trip has sparked protests from pro-Palestinian groups, opposition from some Jewish Australians, and security concerns, with police extending protest restrictions.
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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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A boat capsized north of Zuwara, Libya, on 6 February, resulting in at least 373 deaths. Only two women survived, both Nigerian, losing their husbands and children. The incident highlights ongoing dangers of migrant crossings and exploitation by traffickers, amid increased restrictions and political instability.
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South Africa aims to boost renewable energy by modernising its grid and integrating home solar and electric vehicles. Meanwhile, China continues to expand coal capacity despite wind and solar growth, and the US leads a surge in gas-fired power driven by AI data centers, raising climate concerns.
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In Portugal's presidential runoff, Socialist Seguro secured a five-year term with around 70% of votes, defeating far-right candidate Ventura. The election tested support for populism and Europe's shifting political landscape amid recent instability and rising nationalist sentiments.
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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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Portugal's presidential election is nearing its conclusion with incumbent Seguro leading at around 66%, while far-right Ventura trails but advances to a runoff. Voting was held amid storms, with turnout similar to the first round. Seguro promotes moderation; Ventura's support signals rising far-right influence.
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Cristiano Ronaldo has missed recent matches at Al-Nassr amid dissatisfaction with club management and transfer activity, while rival Karim Benzema's move to Al Hilal heightens the league's competitive tensions. The transfer window closed with ongoing disputes over club funding and squad strengthening.
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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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A building in Tripoli, Lebanon, collapsed on Sunday, killing 15 and injuring eight. The incident highlights ongoing issues with unsafe, neglected structures in the city, with authorities declaring Tripoli a disaster zone amid repeated collapses and calls for urgent safety assessments.
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Lahore marks the return of the centuries-old Basant kite festival after an 18-year ban, with new safety regulations in place. The event celebrates spring, cultural heritage, and boosts local economy, despite past deadly accidents linked to hazardous kite strings. Authorities emphasize strict safety enforcement this year.
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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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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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Since a US-brokered ceasefire in October, violence continues in Gaza with over 556 Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes, despite ongoing claims of a truce. Key issues like aid delivery, border crossings, and disarmament remain stalled, with both sides accusing each other of violations amid limited progress on reconstruction.
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French authorities issued summons to Israeli activists Nili Kupfer-Naouri and Rachel Touitou for attempting to block aid to Gaza, accusing them of seeking to facilitate genocide. The case marks a first in legal history, with debates over aid, legality, and political motives intensifying amid ongoing Gaza conflict.
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Queensland will become the first Australian state to outlaw slogans like "from the river to the sea" and "globalise the intifada" following the Bondi terror attack. The proposed laws aim to criminalise hate speech, with penalties up to seven years in prison, amid concerns over incitement and rising antisemitism.
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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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Fighting in South Sudan's Jonglei State has intensified, causing widespread displacement, attacks on healthcare facilities, and disrupting aid. The UN reports over 370,000 displaced this year, with escalating violence threatening to undermine peace efforts and worsen humanitarian conditions.
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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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Heavy rainfall caused severe flooding in northern Morocco, resulting in at least five deaths, over 143,000 evacuations, and widespread damage. The floods, driven by Storm Marta, ended a seven-year drought but raised ongoing water management concerns. Authorities continue rescue efforts and monitor dam capacities.
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Israeli President Herzog visited Bondi Beach to honor victims of the December attack, laying stones from Jerusalem and expressing solidarity. His visit follows Australia's efforts to combat antisemitism and address the attack's aftermath amid protests and heightened security.
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Team USA's women's hockey team has won its first two games at the 2026 Winter Olympics, with star player Hilary Knight tying the American record for Olympic goals. Meanwhile, Japan narrowly defeated France in women's ice hockey, and Sweden's women’s team secured a key victory over Germany. The tournament continues with critical matches ahead.
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Multiple countries face ongoing challenges in eradicating female genital mutilation (FGM). Despite legal reforms, social norms, conflict, and economic hardship hinder progress. Campaigns, religious clarifications, and community engagement are key strategies, but entrenched traditions and war threaten to reverse gains made in countries like Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Iraq. Today marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance.
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Tuskegee coach Taylor was handcuffed during a postgame handshake line after attempting to remove Tuskegee players from the court. The incident occurred in Atlanta, with no charges filed. Taylor's attorneys consider a civil lawsuit, citing misconduct by security. The event highlights tensions at HBCU sports events.
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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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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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The U.S. and India announced a trade agreement reducing tariffs and promising increased market access. India will stop buying Russian oil, and tariffs on Indian goods will be lowered to 18%. The deal aims to strengthen economic ties amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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A recent attack in Kaduna's Kauru district resulted in multiple abductions and deaths, amid ongoing insecurity in northern Nigeria. The incident follows a series of abductions and violence, with international concern over Nigeria's security crisis and government response. Today’s date is Sun, 08 Feb 2026.
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Russia launched extensive missile and drone strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing widespread blackouts amid harsh winter conditions. Meanwhile, a senior Russian military officer was wounded in an assassination attempt linked to Ukraine, with a suspect detained in Dubai and extradited to Russia. US efforts to broker peace continue despite stalled negotiations.
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Pakistan's cricket team will not play India in the upcoming World Cup, citing security concerns amid ongoing political tensions. The ICC warns this could harm the tournament's integrity and revenue, especially from the high-profile India-Pakistan fixture. The dispute highlights the influence of geopolitics on international sports.
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Recent days have seen several transportation accidents: a bus collision in Uganda, train fatalities in New York and California, and Spain's high-speed rail safety concerns. Authorities are investigating each incident, with some fatalities reported. The stories highlight ongoing safety challenges in public transit systems globally.
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Support for Venezuela's ruling party is declining at the grassroots level, with reports of falling participation and support, amid economic uncertainty and internal fractures following Maduro's detention. The opposition and interim government face challenges in maintaining unity and influence.
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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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Recent developments highlight escalating Gulf tensions, with Algeria terminating UAE air agreements, and Gulf states clashing over Yemen and regional influence. The rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the UAE is intensifying, affecting regional stability and trade, amid broader geopolitical shifts in the Horn of Africa and North Africa.
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Ukraine aims to accelerate peace negotiations with Russia before the US mid-term elections, with Ukrainian officials urging US support. Russia continues drone strikes targeting energy infrastructure, while Ukraine vows to retaliate. Recent talks in Abu Dhabi saw prisoner exchanges but no breakthrough on key territorial issues.
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The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened as part of a fragile ceasefire, but only a small number of Palestinians have crossed due to restrictions, delays, and reports of mistreatment. The crossing remains a critical but limited lifeline amid ongoing tensions.
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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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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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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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U.S. officials propose ending the Ukraine war by early summer, with a deadline of June. Kyiv agrees to upcoming talks in Miami, while negotiations in Abu Dhabi have stalled. Russia continues strikes, complicating peace efforts amid prisoner swaps and diplomatic pressure.
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On February 9, 2026, New Mexico begins the first stand-alone trial against Meta over alleged harms to children on its platforms. The case involves undercover investigations, claims of algorithm-driven addiction, and failure to disclose harmful effects, with Meta denying violations. The trial could influence future legal actions nationwide.
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Target has announced Michael Fiddelke as its new CEO during a period of political unrest in Minneapolis, where federal immigration enforcement has led to protests, violence, and economic disruption. The company faces internal and external pressure following recent fatal shootings by immigration agents and community protests.
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Eddie Bauer LLC, a historic outdoor apparel brand, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in New Jersey today, risking the closure of nearly 200 stores across North America. The move follows years of financial struggles, ownership changes, and market pressures, with operations outside the US and Canada unaffected. Stores will wind down or be sold, while e-commerce and wholesale continue.
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A severe Arctic cold wave has swept across the eastern US, causing record low temperatures, widespread power outages, and over 110 deaths. Major cities like New York and Nashville face extreme conditions, with ongoing recovery efforts and warnings of dangerous weather into early February.
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A Maricopa County judge invalidated several outdated Arizona abortion laws, citing they hinder women's autonomous decision-making. The ruling supports recent voter-backed constitutional protections for abortion rights, but the state's attorney general plans to appeal. The case highlights ongoing legal conflicts over abortion restrictions following Roe v. Wade's overturn.
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A small plane made an emergency landing on Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville, Georgia, with minor injuries reported. Separately, a multi-vehicle crash caused by fog occurred on Highway 99 in Tulare County, California, involving nearly 60 vehicles and resulting in at least 10 injuries. No fatalities have been reported today.
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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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Recent incidents highlight how AI-generated videos and images are complicating verification efforts in law enforcement and politics. Experts warn that manipulated media erodes trust, spreads false narratives, and challenges public discernment, especially as authorities and officials share AI-altered content amid ongoing crises.
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Ronald Hicks was officially installed as the 11th archbishop of New York on February 6, 2026, succeeding Cardinal Dolan. He emphasized evangelization, social justice, and unity amid challenges like social issues and the church’s sexual abuse settlement. Hicks aims to foster faith and community in the large, diverse archdiocese.
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The Skylight Frame, a 10-inch digital photo album, is praised for its ease of use and emotional value. It allows users to share photos remotely, making it a popular gift for loved ones. Currently, it’s 25% off on Amazon for Valentine’s Day, with quick shipping options.
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Major US medical organizations now recommend delaying gender-related surgeries for minors until age 19, citing insufficient evidence of benefits and concerns over risks. This marks a significant shift from previous support for pediatric gender interventions amid ongoing legal and political debates.