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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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Bangladesh's first election since 2024 unrest resulted in a BNP victory, with Tarique Rahman returning from exile to lead. Results are still unofficial, but the BNP claims enough seats to govern alone. The election follows a period of political turmoil and violence, with the future of democracy in question.
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This year's Munich Security Conference highlights growing transatlantic tensions amid US accusations of undermining the international order, European concerns over US unpredictability, and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan. US officials aim to rebuild trust, but recent US rhetoric and actions have strained alliances.
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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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Israeli authorities have arrested a civilian and reservist suspected of placing bets on future military operations on Polymarket, based on classified information. The suspects face charges including security offenses, bribery, and obstruction of justice. The case highlights concerns over insider trading and security risks linked to prediction markets.
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Gisèle Pelicot publicly details her decade-long ordeal of being drugged and raped by her husband, Dominique Pelicot, who recruited dozens of men to assault her while she was unconscious. Her 2024 trial led to her husband's 20-year prison sentence and sparked a national debate on consent laws in France.
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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 13, 2026, Canada and France have officially 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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Imran Khan, former Pakistan prime minister, has been in detention since August 2023. Reports reveal his eyesight has sharply declined, with no timely medical intervention. Court orders now demand urgent examination and treatment, amid concerns over his treatment and detention conditions.
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On February 5, 2026, the New START treaty between the US and Russia expired, ending decades of nuclear arms limits. Russia offered a one-year extension, but the US declined, seeking a new deal including China, which refuses to join. Both nations remain committed to limits for now, but the absence of formal constraints raises fears of a renewed nuclear arms race.
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The USS Gerald R. Ford, the largest warship ever built, is set to leave the Caribbean for the Middle East, joining the USS Abraham Lincoln amid rising tensions with Iran. President Trump emphasizes the need for a deal with Iran to avoid conflict, while regional tensions escalate with military movements and protests in Iran and Gaza.
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North Korea warns of severe retaliation if drone provocations continue, following recent incidents involving South Korean drones. Kim Yo Jong emphasized that any violation of sovereignty will trigger responses beyond proportionality, amid ongoing investigations into drone flights and tensions with Seoul. The story highlights escalating military tensions in the region.
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Capgemini is beginning to divest its US subsidiary, Capgemini Government Solutions, following scrutiny over its contract with ICE for skip tracing services used in immigration enforcement. The move follows recent police shootings in Minneapolis and growing political pressure from France and US lawmakers demanding transparency.
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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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Chloe Kim, 25, failed to secure her third consecutive Olympic gold in women's halfpipe after falling in her final run. The 17-year-old Choi Gaon of South Korea won gold, marking a historic win for her and South Korea. Kim had battled injury and fell short despite strong performances.
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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 initiatives expand free breakfast clubs and extended school hours to support disadvantaged families amid rising education costs.
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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. Ukrainian forces have also used deception via Telegram to collect data on Russian terminals.
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The CIA has released a new video targeting Chinese military personnel, encouraging them to contact US intelligence via the Tor Browser. This follows previous efforts and coincides with recent high-profile military purges in China, aiming to exploit internal discontent and gather human intelligence amid ongoing tensions.
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At the Munich Security Conference, German politician Friedrich Merz warned that US leadership is challenged and its influence may be waning. He called for repairing NATO and emphasized Europe's need to reduce dependence on the US amid recent tensions and US policies under Trump. The event highlights growing transatlantic divides.
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The U.S. is deploying two aircraft carriers to the Middle East amid rising tensions with Iran over its nuclear program. President Trump warns of military action if Iran does not reach a deal. The move signals increased U.S. pressure, despite some strategic contradictions.
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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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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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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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President Ramaphosa has ordered the deployment of the South African National Defence Force to support police efforts against gang violence and illegal mining in Gauteng and Western Cape. The move follows rising homicide rates and ongoing criminal syndicates, with plans to deploy troops within days and coordinate targeted interventions.
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Ukrainian and Russian officials will meet in Geneva on February 17-18 for a new round of peace negotiations, amid ongoing fighting and international diplomatic efforts. The talks follow previous failed attempts to resolve key territorial disputes, with Ukraine seeking security guarantees and Russia demanding territorial concessions.
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On February 6-7, 2026, the US and India announced a trade framework reducing US tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%, contingent on India halting Russian oil imports. India agreed to lower tariffs on US industrial and agricultural products and commit to $500 billion in US purchases over five years. The deal faces domestic opposition in India, especially from farmers and unions concerned about agricultural exposure.
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UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese was accused of calling Israel the 'common enemy of humanity' at a Doha forum, but she denies making that statement. Countries including France and Germany condemned her remarks, which she says were manipulated. The controversy highlights tensions over her role and statements on Israel.
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Storm Nils swept through southwestern France and northern Spain, causing two deaths and widespread power outages. The storm, described as having 'uncommon strength,' prompted flood alerts and disrupted thousands of households. It has now moved eastward into Europe, with ongoing weather warnings.
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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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Bitcoin has fallen below $66,000 amid ongoing crypto sell-offs, with analysts predicting further declines to as low as $38,000. China's move to reduce US Treasury holdings raises concerns about future US debt stability. Meanwhile, Asia's economies show resilience, and gold prices surge as investors seek safe assets. The story is current as of Fri, 13 Feb 2026.
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Former US President Trump publicly criticized Israeli President Herzog for not granting a pardon to Netanyahu, who faces ongoing corruption trials. Trump, who has long supported Netanyahu, called on Herzog to act, amid tensions over Israel's legal proceedings and US-Israel relations.
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Since late January 2026, a series of unprecedented storms have battered Spain and Portugal, causing at least 16 deaths, widespread flooding, and extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture. Thousands have been evacuated, schools closed, and power outages reported. Authorities warn of ongoing flood risks as rivers near capacity and further rain is forecast across the Iberian Peninsula.
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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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Israeli President Isaac Herzog is visiting Australia following the Bondi Beach terror attack that killed 15. His trip has triggered protests, with critics accusing him of inciting genocide in Gaza. Police have extended protest restrictions amid clashes and threats, while many Australian Jews support the visit as a sign of solidarity.
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EU leaders gathered at a Belgian castle to agree on an action plan for economic restructuring, focusing on energy, financial integration, and industry competitiveness. Diverging visions include deregulation, strategic autonomy, and financial tools, with upcoming summits set to shape the bloc's future.
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Recent reports highlight a worsening global decline in human rights and democratic freedoms, with authoritarian regimes in Africa, Asia, and the US suppressing dissent, violating rights, and escalating violence. The stories reveal systemic abuses, including war crimes, political repression, and cyber exploitation, emphasizing the urgent need for international action.
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On Tuesday, French police arrested nine suspects, including two Louvre employees and several tour guides, in connection with a decade-long €10m ticket fraud scheme at the Louvre. The network allegedly reused tickets multiple times, targeting mainly Chinese tourists, and bribed staff to avoid checks. The investigation follows the museum's December 2024 complaint and coincides with ongoing fallout from an October 2025 crown jewels heist.
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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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EU leaders are debating whether to relax regulations to boost the economy amid geopolitical tensions and internal disagreements. While some push for deregulation and strategic leverage, campaigners warn this risks undermining climate goals. The EU is also reassessing its role in global climate negotiations after setbacks at COP30.
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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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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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Thorbjorn Jagland, former Norwegian prime minister and Secretary General of the Council of Europe, is under investigation for aggravated corruption linked to Jeffrey Epstein. Authorities searched his Oslo residence following US files revealing contacts and travel plans with Epstein. Norway seeks to revoke his diplomatic immunity amid the probe.
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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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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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NatWest has relaxed its fossil fuel financing restrictions, removing bans on renewing oil and gas loans and dealings with non-transition aligned companies. The move reflects shifting priorities amid energy security concerns, despite criticism from sustainability advocates. The bank aims to halve its climate impact by 2030.
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Since early February 2026, Donald Trump has repeatedly called for federal control over U.S. elections, claiming widespread corruption and advocating for a constitutional overhaul. His remarks, unsubstantiated and at odds with the Constitution, have alarmed election officials and lawmakers across party lines, raising concerns about potential threats to electoral independence.
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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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Japan detained a Chinese fishing vessel after it failed to stop for inspection in its exclusive economic zone, marking the first such incident since 2022. The move follows heightened tensions after Japan's Prime Minister suggested military intervention over Taiwan, provoking Chinese protests and diplomatic responses.
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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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The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights reports that RSF forces committed war crimes in el-Fasher, Sudan, including mass killings, sexual violence, and starvation tactics during an 18-month siege. Survivors describe horrific violence, with calls for accountability amid ongoing conflict and drone strikes.
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Multiple avalanches across the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps have resulted in at least 11 deaths this week. Recent heavy snowfall and unstable snowpack, compounded by weather alerts, have created hazardous conditions. Authorities emphasize that managed ski areas remain safe, but backcountry areas are highly dangerous.
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Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu met with President Trump in Washington to discuss Iran's nuclear program, regional security, and Gaza. The visit coincides with renewed US-Iran negotiations and military posturing, highlighting tensions over Iran's regional influence and nuclear ambitions. Netanyahu's absence from the upcoming US peace board fuels speculation about diplomatic disagreements.
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Sophie Adenot, France's second female astronaut, launched to the International Space Station on Friday. She joins a crew replacing a team evacuated last month due to a medical issue. Adenot will conduct over 200 experiments during her eight-month mission, marking a milestone in French space exploration.
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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 articles highlight growing concerns about AI's social and economic effects. Tech workers pursue side hustles amid job risks, while AI developers remain ambivalent about emotional intimacy tools. Work culture in Silicon Valley also faces scrutiny for its intensity and burnout risks.
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A US judge criticized the Biden administration's handling of Venezuelan migrants accused of gang membership, ruling they must be given a chance to challenge their deportations. The case highlights ongoing legal disputes over due process and immigration enforcement under the Trump and Biden administrations.
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San Francisco teachers' strike, which shut down all 120 schools for nearly a week, concluded with a 5% pay raise over two years and fully funded healthcare for dependents. The strike was driven by demands for higher wages and better benefits amid the district's financial crisis. Negotiations continue.
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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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Protests in Iran continue with over 7,000 deaths reported, as the US increases military presence and supports protesters with satellite internet. Negotiations over Iran's nuclear program remain uncertain, while Iran faces internal unrest and international pressure.
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Waymo is deploying its sixth-generation driver with upgraded sensors and AI, operating in multiple US cities. It is testing new features like remote door closing via DoorDash, amid ongoing safety investigations and technological innovations such as the Waymo World Model for simulation training.
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Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance highlighted Puerto Rican culture through symbolic imagery, celebrating identity and resilience amid mixed reactions. The event underscored ongoing debates about Puerto Rican identity, citizenship, and representation in sports and entertainment, with the artist using visual storytelling to make a political statement.
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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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European countries including Spain, Greece, France, and Britain 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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Indonesia is training up to 8,000 soldiers to join a US-led peacekeeping force in Gaza, amid ongoing negotiations and skepticism at home. The force aims to support Gaza's post-war transition, but details on deployment and mandate remain unclear, with Indonesia awaiting further international guidance.
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President Trump has threatened Iran with 'traumatic' consequences if it fails to reach a nuclear deal, amid ongoing negotiations and military posturing. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed skepticism about the deal's quality, while both sides prepare for possible military action. Tensions remain high in the region.
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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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Former US President Donald Trump has filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the BBC, alleging defamation and unfair trade practices over a 2024 Panorama episode that edited his January 6, 2021 speech. A Florida judge set a trial for February 2027, rejecting the BBC's delay request.
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Operation Metro Surge, the DHS's largest immigration enforcement effort in Minnesota, has concluded after arrests of over 4,000 individuals. The operation, launched in December, faced criticism following deadly incidents and protests. Officials cite increased local cooperation and internal reforms as reasons for the drawdown, with some federal officers remaining in the state.
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The Justice Department has filed a lawsuit against Harvard, accusing the university of obstructing a federal investigation into potential discrimination in admissions. The DOJ seeks Harvard's admissions data to verify if race considerations persist post-Supreme Court ruling. Harvard has not yet responded publicly.
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Egypt has recovered several looted artifacts from the US, Belgium, and the Netherlands over recent months, including statues and relics from ancient Egypt. Additionally, a new archaeological site in Sinai reveals prehistoric carvings, highlighting Egypt's ongoing efforts to reclaim its cultural heritage and expand historical understanding.
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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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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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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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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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Nancy Guthrie, 84-year-old mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie, has been missing since February 1 after being abducted from her Tucson home. The FBI has released new suspect details, increased the reward to $100,000, and is urging public tips. The case remains active and ongoing.
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The UK government is accelerating apprenticeship approvals, launching new short courses, and encouraging regional hiring. Scotland's mid-sized businesses plan to increase apprenticeship intake, while Scotland's first fully funded accounting apprenticeship is introduced in Edinburgh. These initiatives aim to address skills shortages and expand career pathways.
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In Kenya and Zimbabwe, the tradition of giving flower bouquets has evolved into cash and metal arrangements amid economic challenges. Kenya has banned elaborate money bouquets made from banknotes, prompting sellers to adapt by using alternative currencies or simpler designs. Zimbabwe's dollar-dominated economy fuels the popularity of dollar bill bouquets, which are now a Valentine’s Day staple, reflecting economic realities and social trends.
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A police officer was injured in an attack at the Arc de Triomphe during a ceremony honoring unknown soldiers. The attacker was shot and hospitalized. French authorities are investigating the incident as a potential terror act, with no other injuries reported today, February 13, 2026.
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A 44-year-old man wanted for thefts in Italy since 2010 was arrested in Milan after checking into a campsite. He was trying to attend Slovakia's hockey game at the Winter Olympics. He faces 11 months in prison, and the arrest highlights Italy's ongoing efforts to track long-term fugitives.
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The US and Taiwan have announced a trade agreement reducing tariffs on Taiwanese goods from 20% to 15%, aligning with South Korea and Japan. The deal includes commitments for Taiwan to purchase US energy, aircraft, and equipment, and to significantly boost investments in semiconductors and high-tech sectors. The agreement aims to strengthen supply chains amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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Last year's 12-day Israel-Iran war weakened Iran's military but did not neutralize its capabilities. As tensions escalate again, the risk of broader conflict increases, with Iran potentially targeting US bases, oil infrastructure, and shipping lanes. The US and Israel maintain military superiority, but regional retaliation remains a concern.
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The Louvre in Paris experienced a water leak in room 707, damaging artworks by Charles Meynier and Bernardino Luini. This follows a recent jewel heist, ticket fraud arrests, and staff strikes, highlighting ongoing security and management issues at the museum.
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On February 12, 2026, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized the repeal of the 2009 'endangerment finding' that classified greenhouse gases as threats to public health. This move, led by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and supported by President Trump, removes federal greenhouse gas emission standards for vehicles and threatens broader climate regulations. The rollback is the largest deregulatory action in US history and faces imminent legal challenges.
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Support for Nepal's former king Gyanendra Shah has surged amid political instability, with thousands rallying to call for the restoration of the constitutional monarchy. The movement gains momentum ahead of upcoming elections, though Gyanendra's chances of returning to power remain slim due to limited political backing.
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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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Since October 2023, 5.4 million people have returned to Afghanistan, mainly from Pakistan and Iran, driven by border crackdowns and economic hardship. The influx has overwhelmed Afghanistan's resources, worsening its humanitarian crisis amid drought and earthquakes. UNHCR warns of unsustainable returns and limited support.
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Recent reports highlight the growing threat of AI-generated misinformation, with fake news spreading rapidly online. Experts warn this complicates public trust and investigations, especially in high-profile cases like the Southport murders and international incidents. Authorities call for urgent regulation and oversight.
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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 satellite images and reports reveal Ethiopia's involvement in Sudan's civil war, with a camp in Benishangul-Gumuz allegedly financed by the UAE. The camp trains RSF fighters, escalating regional tensions amid ongoing conflict and refugee flows. The story highlights Ethiopia's strategic role and potential destabilization.
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Recent polls show Ken Paxton leading in Texas's Republican primary, with early voting beginning next week. The race features John Cornyn and Wesley Hunt, amid intra-party attacks and legal challenges. The outcome could influence the state's Senate race and national political dynamics.
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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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Russian oil revenues have fallen to their lowest levels since the COVID-19 pandemic, due to US and EU sanctions, tariff pressures, and a crackdown on sanctions-dodging tankers. President Putin is borrowing and raising taxes to maintain finances, but economic strains persist amid slowing growth and inflation. The situation highlights the impact of Western sanctions on Russia's war economy.
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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.
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A San Diego court has ordered Rady Children’s Hospital to continue providing gender-affirming treatments to minors until at least March 10, amid a legal dispute with California’s Attorney General. The hospital had announced it would cease such care, citing federal threats, but the judge emphasized the immediate harm to patients and the lack of an imminent funding threat.
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Mike Tyson appears in a Super Bowl ad promoting healthy eating, highlighting the dangers of processed foods and advocating for dietary changes aligned with recent government guidelines. The ad is part of a campaign by the Make America Healthy Again movement, led by allies of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
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Tenants and property managers at Gray's Landing sue the federal government over tear gas use, claiming chemical exposure has harmed residents' health and violated rights. The case highlights concerns over federal crowd-control tactics near residential areas, with upcoming court hearings and recent restrictions in Oregon.
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The U.S. Attorney's Office in Minnesota has filed to dismiss charges against Alfredo Aljorna and Julio Sosa-Celis after new evidence contradicted initial claims. The case involved a Jan. 14 incident where federal agents shot Sosa-Celis during a confrontation, but video and witness accounts now challenge the government's narrative. The dismissal halts prosecution, raising questions about the case's integrity.
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The Biden administration has introduced new rules allowing the dismissal of senior civil servants involved in policy-making roles, removing appeal rights and aligning with Trump-era policies. The move aims to increase accountability but faces criticism over potential politicization of the civil service.
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Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian Muslim detained in Texas, was hospitalized after a seizure. She reports being shackled during treatment and denied contact with family and lawyers. Her detention stems from her activism and alleged visa overstays, raising concerns over treatment and political targeting.
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US inflation slowed to 2.4% in January, below expectations, amid strong job growth and falling energy prices. The labor market remains resilient, but recent data raises questions about the Federal Reserve's next move on interest rates amid mixed signals on inflation and employment.