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The U.S. is facing a record homelessness crisis, with over 770,000 individuals affected, particularly among families and children. Contributing factors include rising housing costs, inflation, and the end of pandemic-era support. The situation is exacerbated by a lack of affordable housing options, leaving many vulnerable to homelessness as the government struggles to address the issue.
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Israel has intensified airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen following a surge in missile and drone attacks from the Iranian-backed militia. The Houthis, acting in solidarity with Hamas, have disrupted shipping and threatened regional stability, prompting international concern over the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.
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The recent collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria poses a significant challenge for Russia, which has relied on Assad as a key ally. The Kremlin's failure to support Assad effectively highlights its weakened position in the Middle East and raises questions about the future of its military bases in Syria. This shift could reshape regional dynamics.
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Following the recent fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, Kurdish forces in Syria are facing increased threats from Turkish-backed groups. The rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has shifted the power dynamics, complicating the Kurds' position and their relationship with the U.S. amid ongoing tensions.
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Iran's Supreme Council of Cyber Space has begun lifting restrictions on WhatsApp and Google Play, a move led by reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian. This decision follows years of bans imposed during protests against the government, signaling potential changes in the country's approach to social media access.
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Imran Chowdhury, 25, has been charged with assisting Daniel Khalife, who escaped from Wandsworth prison in September 2023. Chowdhury allegedly withdrew £400 for Khalife, who was later convicted of spying for Iran. Chowdhury's trial is set for February 2025.
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On January 20, 1981, President Jimmy Carter's negotiations with Iran culminated in the release of American hostages after 444 days in captivity. This moment marked a significant conclusion to a prolonged diplomatic crisis, coinciding with Ronald Reagan's inauguration.
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Recent reports indicate that over 11,000 North Korean soldiers are actively fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, with casualties exceeding 1,100. The South Korean military highlights the challenges faced by these troops, including unfamiliar terrain and drone warfare, as they support Russia's efforts in the ongoing conflict.
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Recent Israeli airstrikes targeted military infrastructure in Yemen, including Sanaa International Airport and several ports, following Houthi missile attacks on Israel. The strikes resulted in casualties and heightened tensions, with both sides threatening further escalation amid ongoing humanitarian crises in the region.
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In a historic meeting, U.S. diplomats met with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus, marking a shift in U.S. policy. The U.S. lifted a $10 million bounty on al-Sharaa, citing his commitment to prevent terrorism in Syria. However, skepticism remains regarding his intentions and the group's future governance.
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The Philippine military is moving forward with plans to acquire the U.S. Typhon missile system to enhance its defense capabilities amid rising tensions with China in the South China Sea. The system's deployment has drawn strong criticism from Beijing, which views it as a threat to regional stability.
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An Israeli airstrike in Gaza killed five Palestinian journalists outside Al-Awda Hospital, escalating tensions amid stalled ceasefire negotiations. The military claimed the strike targeted militants from Islamic Jihad, while the deaths raise concerns over the safety of media personnel in conflict zones.
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Cecilia Sala, an Italian journalist detained in Iran since December 19, 2024, has been released following diplomatic negotiations. Her arrest was reportedly linked to the detention of an Iranian businessman in Italy, raising concerns about the use of journalists as political leverage. The Italian government confirmed her safe return on January 8, 2025.
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Israeli airstrikes targeted Yemen's main airport on December 26, 2024, during a UN delegation's presence, resulting in three fatalities and numerous injuries. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was present, describing the chaos as the airport control tower was destroyed. The strikes are part of escalating tensions involving Houthi attacks on Israel.
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Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, announced that drafting a new constitution for Syria could take up to three years. He also indicated that elections might take four years, following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. The new government aims to reassure neighbors of its commitment to stability and moderation.
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As Donald Trump prepares for his second term, tensions with Iran escalate. Israel's military successes have left Iran vulnerable, prompting discussions of potential U.S. and Israeli military action against Iran's nuclear facilities. The urgency is heightened by the impending expiration of sanctions under the 2015 nuclear deal.
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The UN envoy for Syria is advocating for a democratic transition amid skepticism from the interim government led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Western leaders express concerns over the group's Islamist roots and the future of women's rights in the new regime.
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Cecilia Sala, an Italian journalist detained in Iran for 20 days, has been released and is returning home. The Italian government confirmed her release, attributing it to diplomatic efforts. Sala was arrested on December 19, 2024, under accusations of violating Iranian laws during her reporting trip.
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The Biden administration has informally notified Congress of a new arms package for Israel, aimed at bolstering its defense capabilities amid ongoing conflict. The deal includes various munitions and requires approval from congressional committees. This marks a continuation of significant U.S. military support since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023.
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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate on January 4, 2025, just days before her meeting with President Joe Biden in Rome. Trump praised Meloni's leadership, while discussions reportedly included trade issues and the detention of an Italian journalist in Iran.
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As 2025 begins, Ukraine faces intensified Russian drone attacks and a challenging military situation. With Donald Trump prioritizing an end to the war, the dynamics of U.S. support and European involvement are under scrutiny amid shifting political landscapes.
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Following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, Syria's interim government, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), is advocating for the lifting of international sanctions. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the need for a balanced approach to sanctions while announcing additional humanitarian aid for the Syrian population.
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Indonesia has officially joined BRICS, marking a significant expansion of the group. This decision follows the endorsement of its candidacy by BRICS leaders in August 2023 and the formation of Indonesia's new government in October 2024. The move aims to enhance cooperation among emerging economies amid shifting global dynamics.
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On January 9, 2025, General Joseph Aoun was elected as Lebanon's president, filling a two-year vacancy. His election reflects a shift in power dynamics, particularly the weakening of Hezbollah following recent conflicts. Aoun aims to address corruption and rebuild the country amid ongoing economic crises.
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As President-elect Trump prepares for his inauguration, negotiations for a hostage release deal involving Hamas and Israel are intensifying. The Biden administration and Trump's incoming team are collaborating to secure the release of approximately 100 hostages, including seven Americans, before January 20. Key disagreements remain, particularly regarding ceasefire terms and troop withdrawals.
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Brig. Gen. Behrouz Esbati of Iran's Revolutionary Guard has publicly criticized Russia for its role in the fall of Bashar Assad's government in Syria. His remarks highlight internal tensions within Iran regarding its military strategy and alliances, particularly with Russia, as the Syrian conflict evolves.
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Takeshi Ebisawa, a Yakuza leader, pleaded guilty in Manhattan federal court to trafficking weapons-grade nuclear material and narcotics. He faces a minimum of 10 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for April 9, 2025. Ebisawa's activities included selling nuclear materials sourced from Myanmar to fund arms deals.
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On January 13, 2025, the Biden administration unveiled new regulations on AI chip exports, categorizing countries into three tiers based on their access to advanced computing technology. The rules aim to bolster U.S. technological leadership while restricting access for adversaries like China and Russia, igniting debate among tech companies and government officials.
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In his farewell address, President Biden reflects on his administration's achievements and challenges, emphasizing strengthened alliances and a stable international order. As he prepares to hand over power to Donald Trump, Biden aims to shape his legacy amidst a backdrop of declining popularity and political turmoil.
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In response to recent incidents damaging undersea cables in the Baltic Sea, Sweden is increasing its military presence and surveillance capabilities. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson highlighted the ongoing hybrid threats, particularly from Russia, as Sweden contributes armed forces to NATO's defense efforts.
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As Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House, tensions between the US and China are escalating. Recent military exercises by China and US sanctions on Chinese firms signal a renewed focus on Beijing's influence, particularly regarding Taiwan and regional security dynamics.
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Caroline Darian reveals the trauma of discovering her father, Dominique Pelicot, drugged and raped her mother for over a decade. Following his conviction, she shares her story to raise awareness about drug-facilitated sexual assault and the impact on victims. Pelicot was sentenced to 20 years in prison, with many co-defendants also convicted.
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Italy has released Iranian citizen Mohammad Abedini, wanted by the US for a drone attack that killed three Americans in Jordan. Abedini's release follows diplomatic negotiations involving the Italian government and Iran, coinciding with the return of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala from Iran.
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Iran's former foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, discusses the impact of Western sanctions on the country, revealing vulnerabilities in its nuclear program. Meanwhile, a Swiss citizen's suicide in an Iranian prison raises concerns about human rights and the treatment of detainees in Iran.
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In a final act before leaving office, the Biden administration issued a comprehensive cybersecurity executive order aimed at strengthening defenses against foreign cyber threats, particularly from China and Russia. The order mandates new standards for government contractors and enhances the powers of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
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A cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas is in the works, aiming to secure the release of hostages and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. However, the deal faces complications as Hamas reneges on terms, and concerns remain about the group's enduring influence in the region.
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On January 17, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty, enhancing cooperation across trade, military, and cultural sectors. This agreement comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with both nations facing heavy Western sanctions.
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Asif William Rahman, a 34-year-old CIA analyst, pleaded guilty to leaking classified documents regarding Israel's military plans. Arrested in November 2024, he faces up to 20 years in prison for violating the Espionage Act. His actions compromised U.S. intelligence and delayed Israeli military operations against Iran.