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The US supports a plan to create 'safe communities' in Gaza, dividing the territory into Israeli-controlled zones and others. Construction of compounds for displaced Palestinians is underway, but details on funding, infrastructure, and governance remain uncertain amid ongoing conflict and political disagreements.
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On December 8, 2025, a Boston federal judge ruled that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) unlawfully terminated Turkish PhD student Rümeysa Öztürk's SEVIS record after her visa was revoked amid a crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism. Arrested in March and detained for 45 days, Öztürk can now resume teaching and research at Tufts University, though legal challenges continue.
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Since late November 2025, X (formerly Twitter) has rolled out an "About This Account" feature showing where accounts are based. This exposed many popular US-focused political accounts, especially pro-Trump and pro-Israel ones, as operated from countries like India, Eastern Europe, Nigeria, and Bangladesh. The move aims to increase transparency but raises privacy and safety concerns.
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On November 24, 2025, the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) permanently ceased operations after delivering over 187 million meals during a six-month emergency mission in Gaza. Created to bypass UN aid amid an Israeli blockade, GHF faced criticism for deadly violence near its distribution sites. Its aid model will now be adopted by a US-led coordination center.
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The US has increased military activity near Venezuela, including troop deployments and threats of land strikes, amid ongoing disputes over drug trafficking and regional influence. The Biden administration has not confirmed plans for ground invasion, but recent actions suggest a significant escalation in US efforts to pressure Maduro's government.
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A leaked US State Department cable reveals efforts to pressure allied nations to restrict migration, citing concerns over violent crimes linked to migrants. The cable, sent by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, emphasizes highlighting crimes to justify tighter border policies amid recent incidents involving Afghan migrants.
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The US State Department has introduced new visa criteria targeting foreign workers involved in online censorship activities. The rules prioritize visitors for major sporting events like the World Cup and Olympics, while scrutinizing H-1B applicants for links to content moderation that suppresses free expression. The policy aims to control foreign influence and security risks.
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The US Department of State has implemented new requirements for H-1B visa applicants, including social media transparency and enhanced background checks. The policy, effective December 15, aims to assess applicants' potential risks related to national security and free speech, causing widespread delays and uncertainty for Indian workers and companies.
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The Biden administration has introduced new visa policies, including a weighted lottery favoring higher-paid applicants and a $1 million 'Gold Card' for wealthy immigrants. These changes aim to prioritize high-skill, high-wage workers and raise billions, amid ongoing legal challenges and policy debates.
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The US is actively seeking international support for a multinational force to oversee Gaza's security, with plans for troop contributions from around 70 countries. The effort aims to implement a phased peace plan, including disarmament and governance reforms, amid ongoing tensions and slow progress in the region.
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The Biden administration has intensified military strikes against vessels suspected of drug trafficking from South America, citing fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction. The move aims to combat drug-related violence, but experts question the legality and regional impact of these actions. The story highlights ongoing US efforts to target Latin American drug cartels and gangs.
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Cristian Gutierrez-Ochoa, linked to cartel boss El Mencho, was sentenced in the US to nearly 12 years for conspiracy to launder drug money. He staged his death to escape Mexico after a kidnapping attempt, living in California with a lavish lifestyle funded by cartel money. The case highlights CJNG's reach in the US.
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The Trump administration has ordered over two dozen career diplomats across multiple regions to return to Washington, marking the largest mass recall of foreign service officers in recent history. The move raises questions about diplomatic staffing and policy priorities amid ongoing government restructuring.
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The US State Department has notified at least 29 ambassadors, mostly appointed during Biden's administration, that their postings will end in January. The move affects key countries in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, as part of a broader effort to align diplomacy with the current administration's priorities.
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On December 23-24, 2025, the US Trump administration imposed visa bans on five Europeans, including former EU Commissioner Thierry Breton and digital hate campaigners, accusing them of coercing American platforms to censor US viewpoints. The move targets opposition to the EU's Digital Services Act and has sparked strong condemnation from European leaders, who see it as intimidation and an attack on digital sovereignty.
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The Biden administration has recalled over two dozen diplomats worldwide, emphasizing a shift towards 'America First' policies. Critics question the impact on U.S. diplomacy, especially in Africa, where staffing shortages and strategic shifts are evident. The move reflects a broader focus on trade and bilateral agreements over aid.
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As of December 30, 2025, Spain has enforced a ban on imports from Israeli settlements in occupied territories, including East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights, alongside restrictions on advertising such products. This move follows Spain's broader sanctions on Israel, including an arms embargo, while granting an exception for Airbus. Concurrently, the US sanctioned UN rapporteur Francesca Albanese, barring US companies from financially benefiting her, including from her upcoming book.
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The US has announced new visa restrictions affecting 38 countries, mainly in Africa, requiring applicants to post bonds of up to $15,000. The policy aims to reduce overstays but raises concerns over affordability and fairness, especially for Nigerian travelers. It takes effect on January 21, 2026.
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Syria and Israel are engaging in US-facilitated talks to establish a joint security mechanism aimed at reducing hostilities and restoring a previous disengagement agreement. The negotiations include plans for a coordination unit in Amman and a demilitarized economic zone, amid ongoing tensions since December 2024.
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The US has halted aid to Somalia after allegations that Somali officials seized 76 metric tons of donor-funded food aid and destroyed a warehouse. The suspension reflects ongoing US criticism of Somali governance and increased scrutiny of Somali migrants in the US. The aid freeze may impact future assistance programs.
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The US has suspended aid to Somalia after Somali officials destroyed a US-funded WFP warehouse and seized food aid. Somalia's government disputes the theft claim, stating aid remains in custody. The incident has prompted US investigations and aid suspension, highlighting tensions over aid management and accountability.
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Since January 20, 2026, the Trump administration launched "Operation Catch of the Day," targeting roughly 1,400 immigrants in Maine, focusing on those with alleged criminal records. Governor Janet Mills and local leaders criticize the operation for secrecy and community disruption, especially in Portland and Lewiston's immigrant populations. The raids coincide with a broader visa suspension affecting 75 countries, including many African nations, amid heightened immigration enforcement nationwide.
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President Trump plans to establish a 'Board of Peace' with himself as lifetime chairman, inviting leaders with questionable human rights records, including Putin and Netanyahu. The initiative aims to promote stability but omits human rights, raising concerns about its legitimacy and potential impact on global diplomacy.
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As of February 5, 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is steering Canada to diversify trade away from the US amid President Trump's tariffs and sovereignty threats. Meanwhile, US officials have met multiple times with Alberta separatists seeking independence, sparking Canadian leaders' warnings. Carney aims to boost electric vehicle production and maintain Canadian sovereignty amid escalating US-Canada tensions.
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Israel is preparing to renegotiate its 10-year security agreement with the US, aiming to reduce dependence on direct financial aid and focus on joint military projects. The move aligns with Prime Minister Netanyahu's goal to increase Israeli independence in defense, amid ongoing regional tensions.
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The US ICE agency will support security at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, prompting protests and political debate in Italy. Despite official statements that ICE's role is limited to US delegation security, concerns over human rights and US immigration policies persist. The event runs from February 6 to 22, 2026.
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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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As of February 4, 2026, ICE's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) unit is deployed in Italy for the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, limited to advisory roles within US diplomatic missions. Despite official assurances, the presence has sparked protests and political backlash in Italy, with concerns rooted in ICE's controversial US immigration enforcement and recent violent incidents in Minneapolis.
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The U.S. plans to reopen its embassy in Venezuela, with officials preparing for diplomatic normalization amid ongoing political tensions. The move follows recent efforts to restore relations and includes sending staff to Caracas, while the U.S. considers further measures in the region.
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On February 1, 2026, Iranian protester Erfan Soltani, 26, was released on bail after facing a death sentence linked to anti-government protests. His release follows Iranian officials' denial of his execution and international pressure amid US military posturing. Separately, US courts sentenced Carlisle Rivera for plotting to kill Iranian dissident Masih Alinejad, highlighting ongoing transnational repression.
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The US announced significant military sales to Israel and Saudi Arabia, including Apache helicopters and Patriot missiles, as tensions rise in the Middle East over Iran and ongoing conflicts in Gaza. The deals aim to bolster regional security but face congressional criticism over oversight and strategic implications. Timing coincides with US efforts to manage regional stability.
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The US State Department approved a $3.8 billion sale of 30 Apache attack helicopters and $1.8 billion in tactical vehicles to Israel, amid ongoing Gaza ceasefire and regional tensions. Additionally, a $9 billion missile sale was approved for Saudi Arabia, reflecting heightened US military support in the region.
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Ai Weiwei, the Chinese artist and critic, returned to China after over a decade, reliving a momentous visit to see his mother. His trip was smooth, contrasting with his past detention, and he discussed his new book on censorship and surveillance. Guan's asylum case in the US also highlights ongoing human rights issues.
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Francesca Albanese, UN special rapporteur on Palestinian rights, faces calls to resign from France, Germany, and others after remarks criticizing Israel. Supporters, including artists, defend her, while critics accuse her of antisemitism amid ongoing Gaza conflict. The controversy highlights tensions over human rights reporting and political bias.
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U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held diplomatic talks in Geneva on Tuesday, aiming to address Iran's nuclear program and Ukraine conflict. Experts question their prospects for success amid rapid negotiations and unclear motives, raising concerns about the effectiveness of this unconventional approach.
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The US announced new health funding agreements with Congo, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and others, emphasizing domestic investment and data sharing. Zimbabwe rejected a $367 million deal over sovereignty concerns, while Uganda and Congo proceeded under different terms. The shift reflects US strategy changes and regional tensions over data control.
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The US embassy in Israel has advised non-emergency staff to depart immediately amid rising tensions linked to Iran. The move follows failed nuclear talks and increased military activity, prompting other countries to warn their citizens and airlines to suspend or alter flights to the region. Diplomatic efforts continue to prevent escalation.