18th Jan - World News

WORLD

• DIPLOMACY Jan 18: Israel Objects to US Gaza Board of Peace Amid Strategic Sovereignty Concerns

  Israel has publicly challenged the White House’s announcement regarding the "Gaza Executive Committee," stating the move was not coordinated and contradicts Israeli policy. While the U.S. frames the Trump-led "Board of Peace" as a roadmap for regional stability and reconstruction, Israeli leaders remain wary of oversight mechanisms that could bypass longstanding bilateral security agreements and territorial integrity during the fragile ceasefire's second phase.

• TRADE Jan 18: Trump Vows Escalating European Tariffs to Force Purchase of Strategic Greenland

  President Donald Trump has intensified his push to acquire Greenland, threatening a 10% import tariff on eight European nations starting February 1. The levy is set to rise to 25% by June unless a deal is reached with Denmark. Trump cited national security and mineral wealth as primary drivers, while European allies view the move as an aggressive challenge to the Western Hemisphere's stability.

• ARCTIC Jan 18: Greenlanders Rally in Nuuk Against Trump Annexation Push with Massive Protest

  Thousands of protesters gathered in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, to voice opposition to U.S. annexation threats. Waving national flags and chanting "Greenland is not for sale," nearly a quarter of the city's population marched to the U.S. Consulate. Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen joined the demonstration, emphasizing self-governance. Similar solidarity rallies occurred in Copenhagen and Canada, reflecting global resistance to the proposed American takeover of the territory.

• IRAN Jan 18: Khamenei Acknowledges Thousands Killed in Protests and Blames Trump for Incitement

  Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei admitted that several thousand people died during recent anti-regime protests, the first such high-level acknowledgment of the death toll. While human rights groups estimate over 3,000 fatalities, Khamenei labeled the casualties a result of U.S.-backed "sedition." He specifically accused President Trump of criminal incitement, promising no leniency for detainees as the government maintains its crackdown on dissent.

• SYRIA Jan 18: US Precision Strike in Northwest Syria Kills Al-Qaeda Affiliate Senior Leader

  The U.S. military confirmed the elimination of Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, an experienced terrorist leader, in a precision strike in northwest Syria. Al-Jasim was reportedly linked to a December attack in Palmyra that killed American personnel. This operation is part of a broader U.S. response involving over 200 munitions targeting extremist infrastructure to degrade the operational capabilities of al-Qaeda and ISIS remnants in the region.

• ECONOMY Jan 18: EU and Mercosur Sign Landmark Free Trade Agreement to Rival US Tariffs

  After 25 years of negotiations, the EU and Mercosur bloc formally signed a free trade agreement in Asunción, Paraguay. The deal aims to eliminate 90% of tariffs, creating a massive trade zone of 700 million consumers. EU officials described the pact as a bulwark against rising protectionism and "unilateralism," positioning the alliance as a strategic alternative to the aggressive trade policies currently emerging from Washington.

• AVIATION Jan 18: Indonesian Rescuers Locate Missing Surveillance Plane Wreckage on Remote Mountain

  Search teams have found the wreckage of an ATR 42-500 fisheries surveillance plane on Mount Bulusaraung in South Sulawesi. The aircraft, carrying 11 people, lost contact during a maritime mission for the Ministry of Marine Affairs. While one body has been recovered, the fate of the remaining ten passengers and crew remains unknown. Rescue efforts are currently hampered by thick fog and treacherous mountainous terrain.

• AUSTRIA Jan 18: Eight Skiers Killed in Multiple Avalanches Across Austrian Alps Following Heavy Snow

  A series of deadly avalanches in the Austrian Alps has claimed the lives of eight skiers, including three Czech nationals in Styria. Authorities had issued high-level warnings after significant snowfall made off-piste conditions extremely volatile. Despite large-scale rescue operations involving helicopters and dog teams, the "level 3" danger rating remains in effect across Salzburg and surrounding regions, as officials urge winter sports enthusiasts to stay on marked trails.

• CONFLICT Jan 18: Syrian Army Advances on Kurdish Areas Following Collapse of Withdrawal Agreement

  Government troops have seized the Tabqa region and several northern neighborhoods as the Syrian army expands its reach. The advance follows the collapse of a withdrawal deal with Kurdish-led forces (SDF), leading to clashes near Aleppo. While the government issued a decree recognizing Kurdish identity as a goodwill gesture, the military has declared strategic zones southwest of the Euphrates as closed areas, escalating tensions in Raqqa province.

• SECURITY Jan 18: Iraq Assumes Full Control of Ain al-Asad Base Following US Troop Exit

  Iraqi military units have taken complete operational control of the strategic Ain al-Asad air base after the final withdrawal of U.S. forces. The handover fulfills a key part of the 2024 agreement to end the anti-ISIS coalition. Prime Minister al-Sudani emphasized that the exit of foreign troops removes any remaining justification for non-state armed groups to maintain weapons, marking a significant step toward Iraqi military self-reliance.

• GUATEMALA Jan 18: Inmates Hold 46 Hostages in Coordinated Riots Across Three Guatemalan Prisons

  Members of the Barrio 18 gang have taken 46 hostages, including guards and a psychologist, across three correctional facilities in Guatemala. The riots were sparked by the government's decision to revoke special privileges for gang leaders. Interior Minister Marco Antonio Villeda has refused to negotiate with the "terrorist groups," as special forces and the army maintain a perimeter around the high-security Renovación 1 prison to prevent further escalation.

• PAKISTAN Jan 18: Deadly Fire at Karachi’s Gul Plaza Kills Six Including Rescue Firefighter

  A massive blaze at Karachi's Gul Plaza shopping mall has resulted in at least six deaths. The fire, which broke out overnight, spread through 1,200 shops stocked with flammable goods, causing parts of the four-story structure to collapse. Among the victims was a firefighter who died while battling the flames on the upper floors. Authorities are investigating the cause, citing a history of poor safety standards in the city's commercial buildings.

• TARIFFS Jan 18: Trump Threatens 25% Tariffs on Europe Until Denmark Sells Greenland to US

  President Donald Trump has escalated his bid to acquire Greenland by threatening a "dangerous downward spiral" of trade war. He announced a 10% tariff on eight European nations, including France, Germany, and the UK, effective February 1. The rate will surge to 25% in June unless a deal is reached for the "complete and total purchase" of the Arctic territory.

• GAZA Jan 18: Trump Invites India to Gaza Board of Peace Amid Strategic Diplomacy Shift

  In a bold move to reshape Middle East diplomacy, President Trump has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to join a newly proposed "Board of Peace" for Gaza. Sources indicate the board aims to oversee post-war reconstruction and governance. While the initiative seeks global participation, it marks a significant shift in how the US intends to manage regional conflicts through handpicked international partners.

• IRAN Jan 18: Iran Protest Death Toll Hits 5,000 as State Forces Intensify Violent Crackdown

  Human rights organizations report that at least 5,000 people have been killed in ongoing unrest across Iran. Verified accounts describe "blood on the streets" in cities like Karaj, where security forces reportedly used heavy machine guns against protesters. As the judiciary hints at mass executions, the international community has raised alarms over the unprecedented scale of lethal force used to quell the uprising.

• FINANCE Jan 18: Trump Seeks $1 Billion Entry Fee for Permanent Seats on Peace Board

  Leaked charter documents for the "Board of Peace" reveal a controversial tiered membership structure. While nations can join for three-year terms subject to Trump’s approval, a permanent seat requires a $1 billion cash contribution within the first year. Critics argue the fee transforms international diplomacy into a "pay-to-play" system, effectively bypassing the United Nations for a US-led alternative funded by wealthy member states.

• SYRIA Jan 18: Syrian Military Seizes Vital Oil and Gas Fields from Kurdish-Led Forces

  Syrian government troops, supported by Arab tribal fighters, have captured the Omar oil field and Conoco gas field in Deir ez-Zor. This strategic advance strips the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) of their primary revenue source. Despite US calls for a halt, the Syrian army has moved 150 km along the Euphrates, seizing major dams and further weakening the Kurdish administration's territorial grip.

• ENERGY Jan 18: Zelenskyy Orders Emergency Electricity Imports as Russia Weaponizes Winter Against Ukraine

  President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has mandated an immediate acceleration of electricity imports and equipment procurement to save Ukraine's failing power grid. Following devastating Russian strikes on energy infrastructure, millions face freezing conditions. With blackout crises hitting Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia, the government is racing to fix backup power lines and secure additional generators from Western partners to prevent a total humanitarian catastrophe this winter.

• FASHION Jan 18: Nawaz Sharif Grandson’s Wedding Sparks Internet Debate Over Bride’s Lavish Outfits

  The wedding of Junaid Safdar and Shanzay Ali Rohail has dominated social media headlines. The bride's choice of Indian couturiers Sabyasachi and Tarun Tahiliani for her Mehndi and wedding ceremonies triggered a massive debate in Pakistan. While some praised the craftsmanship and cross-border aesthetic, others trolled Maryam Nawaz for her own elaborate "dulhan-like" appearance, accusing the family of insensitive displays of wealth during economic hardship.

• NOBEL Jan 18: Nobel Foundation Snubs Trump After Venezuelan Leader Gifts Him Her Medal

  The Nobel Foundation has issued a stern clarification after Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado "regifted" her 2025 Peace Prize medal to Donald Trump. The foundation stated that the honor is "inseparably linked" to the original laureate and cannot be transferred or shared. While Trump now physically possesses the gold medal, the committee insists he remains unrecorded in the official history of Nobel laureates.

• CRIME Jan 18: Indian-Origin Motel Owners Arrested in Major Virginia Sex Trafficking FBI Raid

  Kosha and Tarun Sharma, operators of the Red Carpet Inn in Dumfries, Virginia, have been arrested following a federal investigation into drug and sex trafficking. FBI officials allege the couple profited from organized prostitution and narcotics sales within their motel. The raid comes after years of local complaints, with prosecutors claiming the establishment was a hub for criminal exploitation and illicit activity.

• HUMANITY Jan 18: Pakistan Activist Receives Death Threats After Rescuing Kidnapped Hindu Girls

  A prominent human rights activist in Pakistan has issued an SOS after receiving death threats from the extremist group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). The threats followed the activist's successful intervention in rescuing several Hindu girls from forced conversions and marriages. Civil society groups are calling for urgent state protection as extremist pressure against minority rights advocates reaches a boiling point in the region.

• DIPLOMACY Jan 18: Israel Objects to US-Led Gaza Executive Board Citing Policy Conflicts

  Tensions have flared between Washington and Jerusalem after the Netanyahu administration publicly objected to the US announcement of a Gaza Executive Board. Israeli officials claim the oversight structure was not coordinated with their security cabinet and contradicts current military policy. The friction highlights a growing rift over who will control the governance and security of the Palestinian enclave in the post-war phase.

• NATO Jan 18: European Allies Deploy Troops to Greenland in Defiance of Trump Threats

  In a historic show of unity, NATO allies have deployed troops to Greenland to reinforce Danish sovereignty. The move follows Donald Trump’s assertions that the Arctic island poses a "national security threat" to the US. European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have condemned the "intimidation tactics," comparing the threat of forceful acquisition to recent territorial invasions and vowing to protect the autonomous territory's integrity.

• PAKISTAN Jan 18: Six Dead as Massive Fire Guts Karachi’s Iconic Gul Plaza Shopping Mall

  At least six people, including a brave firefighter, lost their lives after a catastrophic blaze tore through the Gul Plaza shopping center in Karachi. The fire, which broke out late Saturday and continued into Sunday, gutted over 1,000 shops. Authorities fear the death toll may rise as many remain trapped in the destroyed four-story structure while a probe into safety violations begins.

• IRAN Jan 18: Khamenei Admits Thousands Killed in Ongoing Nationwide Anti-Government Protests

  In a historic admission, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei confirmed that "several thousand" people have been killed during recent anti-government unrest. Medical reports suggest a much grimmer reality, with some estimates reaching 16,500 deaths and 330,000 injuries. Despite the massacres, Khamenei blamed foreign enemies for the violence, while human rights groups accuse the regime of using direct live fire and chemical substances against citizens.

• TAIWAN Jan 18: Chinese Drone Conducts Provocative Eight-Minute Flight Over Pratas Islands Airspace

  Tensions escalated in the South China Sea as a Chinese reconnaissance drone entered the airspace of the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands for eight minutes. Taiwan’s defense ministry condemned the move as "provocative and irresponsible," noting the drone flew at an altitude beyond anti-aircraft range. While China claimed the flight was "normal training," Taipei has maintained strict vigilance over the strategic atoll located 400km from the mainland.

• POLICY Jan 18: Donald Trump Calls for New Leadership in Iran Amid Escalating Violence

  President Donald Trump has explicitly called for "new leadership" in Iran after reading social media posts from Supreme Leader Khamenei that blamed the U.S. for internal unrest. Trump accused the Iranian regime of destroying the country and using extreme violence against its own people. While some protesters feel betrayed by past U.S. policies, Trump hinted that "help is on the way" as regional tensions spike.

• EUROPE Jan 18: Macron Urges EU Trade Bazooka Deployment Against Trump’s Greenland Tariffs

  French President Emmanuel Macron is pushing the European Union to activate its "Anti-Coercion Instrument" to counter Donald Trump’s threat of a 25% tariff on eight European nations. The standoff stems from Europe’s refusal to facilitate the U.S. acquisition of Greenland. Dubbed the "trade bazooka," this mechanism would allow the bloc to restrict U.S. imports and investments, marking a significant escalation in transatlantic trade hostilities.

• CANADA Jan 18: PM Mark Carney Forges Strategic Trade Partnership with China’s Xi Jinping

  In a major pivot from U.S. economic reliance, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney signed a historic deal with President Xi Jinping. The agreement slashes Chinese tariffs on Canadian canola from 85% to 15% in exchange for Canada easing restrictions on Chinese electric vehicles. This "new strategic partnership" focuses on energy and agri-food, signaling Canada's intent to diversify trade despite anticipated fury from the Trump administration.

• TRADE Jan 18: EU and Mercosur Sign Historic Free Trade Deal After 25 Years

  The European Union and the Mercosur bloc have finally signed a landmark free trade agreement in Paraguay, concluding negotiations that spanned over two decades. The deal aims to eliminate tariffs and boost economic ties between Europe and South American nations like Brazil and Argentina. However, the agreement faces a difficult ratification path, with European farmers and environmental groups raising concerns over competition and deforestation.

• AVIATION Jan 18: Wreckage of Missing Surveillance Plane Found in Indonesia; 11 Confirmed Dead

  Rescuers have located the wreckage of an Indonesia Air Transport ATR 42-500 that disappeared from radar near Makassar. The debris was found on the slopes of Mount Bulu Saraung within the Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park. Tragically, all 11 people on board were confirmed dead. Investigators are now focusing on flight path deviations and harsh weather conditions that may have contributed to the crash in the rugged terrain.

• VISA Jan 18: U.S. Freezes Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries Citing Financial Self-Sufficiency

  The Trump administration has announced a sweeping pause on immigrant visa issuances for nationals from 75 "high-risk" countries, including Pakistan, Nepal, and Brazil. Effective late January, the policy requires immigrants to prove they will not become a "public charge" or rely on welfare. While some 15 countries received temporary relief, the move has drawn sharp criticism from global experts who question the financial metrics used to justify the freeze.

• TRAVEL Jan 18: China Expands Visa-Free Entry to Canada and Bulgaria in Diplomatic Push

  China has significantly expanded its unilateral visa-free travel policy, adding Canada and Bulgaria to a growing list of nations whose citizens can enter for 30 days without a visa. This move, part of Beijing's "travel revolution," aims to foster economic ties and cultural exchange. Travelers from nearly 45 countries now enjoy easier access for tourism and business, reflecting China's broader strategy to enhance its global engagement.

• MILITARY Jan 18: USS Abraham Lincoln Strike Group Deploys to Middle East Amid Iran Tensions

  The U.S. Navy has diverted the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group from the South China Sea to the Middle East. Accompanied by missile destroyers and submarines, the carrier's arrival is intended to provide "military options" as Iran faces historic domestic protests. White House officials warned that "all options are on the table," fueling speculation regarding potential targeted strikes on Iranian security infrastructure to support demonstrators.

• PROTEST Jan 18: Jan 6 Rioter Jake Lang Chased Off by Counterprotesters in Minneapolis

  A planned "anti-Islam" rally led by pardoned Jan 6 rioter Jake Lang ended in chaos at Minneapolis City Hall. Hundreds of counterprotesters vastly outnumbered Lang’s supporters, eventually chasing him into a downtown hotel after he attempted to burn a Qur'an. The clash occurred amid high local tension following recent ICE operations. Police remained on high alert with armored vehicles, but no arrests were reported following the retreat of the far-right activists.

• VENEZUELA Jan 18: US Held Secret Talks With Diosdado Cabello Before and After Maduro Ouster

  The Trump administration maintained months of quiet communication with Venezuela’s powerful interior minister, Diosdado Cabello, both before and after the U.S. raid that seized Nicolas Maduro. Officials reportedly warned Cabello against using his security forces to target the opposition, aiming to prevent chaos and ensure stability under interim President Delcy Rodriguez. The talks highlight Cabello's enduring influence despite facing U.S. drug-trafficking indictments.

• IRAQ Jan 18: Iraqi Forces Take Full Control of Ayn al-Asad Base Following US Exit

  Iraq’s Defense Ministry announced that its military has assumed full control of the strategic Ayn al-Asad Airbase in Anbar province. The handover follows the planned withdrawal of U.S. troops as part of a regional consolidation effort. Chief of Staff Abdul Amir Yarallah oversaw the transition, marking a significant milestone in Iraq’s efforts to strengthen national sovereignty while continuing progress against remaining ISIS cells in the region.

• IRAN Jan 18: Iran Begins Gradual Restoration of Internet Services Following Deadly Protests

  Iranian authorities have started a phased rollback of the nationwide internet blackout imposed during recent anti-government unrest. While SMS services have been restored, mobile data remains largely restricted. Rights groups estimate the death toll from the crackdown could be in the thousands, though Tehran maintains calm has returned. The government is promoting domestic intranet applications like Rubika to replace blocked Western social media platforms and messaging apps.

• SYRIA Jan 18: US Operation Hawkeye Strike Kills Al-Qaeda Leader Linked to Deadly Ambush

  A U.S. airstrike in northwest Syria has killed Bilal Hasan al-Jasim, a senior Al-Qaeda-affiliated leader tied to a December ambush that killed three Americans. The mission, dubbed "Operation Hawkeye Strike," is part of a broader retaliatory campaign ordered by President Trump. CENTCOM officials stated the strike targeted ISIS and Al-Qaeda operatives attempting to regroup following the collapse of the Assad regime, underscoring U.S. resolve in the region.

• AFRICA Jan 18: Devastating Floods Kill Over 100 Across Southern Africa as Rains Intensify

  Torrential rains have claimed more than 100 lives across South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe, displacing hundreds of thousands of people. Mozambique reports the highest toll, with flooding, lightning, and cholera outbreaks compounding the crisis. In South Africa, the Kruger National Park faced closures as army helicopters rescued tourists trapped by rising rivers. Experts link the extreme weather to the La Niña phenomenon, which has inundated over 70,000 hectares of crops.

• NOBEL Jan 18: Maria Corina Machado's Daring Sea Escape Footage Released by Rescue Team

  Dramatic footage has been released showing the covert nighttime extraction of Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. After nearly a year in hiding, Machado was rescued by a U.S.-based team via the Caribbean Sea. The high-risk operation allowed her to reach Norway to accept her Nobel Peace Prize. Machado later met with President Trump at the White House, presenting her Nobel medal as a symbol of Venezuela's struggle for democracy.

• BRICS Jan 18: India Skips South Africa-Led Naval Drills Citing Lack of Institutional Mandate

  India declined to participate in the "Will for Peace 2026" naval exercises held in South African waters involving Russia, China, and Iran. Despite holding the BRICS chair, New Delhi characterized the drills as a non-institutional activity. Analysts suggest the move reflects India's cautious approach to military engagement with China and a desire to maintain strategic autonomy by avoiding the appearance of joining an anti-Western military bloc amid U.S. scrutiny.

• IMMIGRATION Jan 18: Two Indian Students Detained in Minnesota Amid Massive Federal ICE Crackdown

  Reports indicate that two Indian students were detained by ICE agents in Minnesota during a surge in federal immigration enforcement. The crackdown in the Twin Cities has triggered widespread protests and clashes between pro- and anti-immigration groups. Social media warnings have circulated among the Indian community, advising students to avoid part-time jobs that might violate visa conditions as the Trump administration intensifies its efforts to deport undocumented individuals.

• STEALTH Jan 18: China Set to Deploy 1300 J-20 Stealth Fighters by 2030 Deadline

  Military analysts report that China is rapidly expanding its fleet of fifth-generation J-20 stealth fighters, with projections reaching 1,300 aircraft by 2030. The production rate has surged to approximately 120 jets per year, challenging American air supremacy in the Asia-Pacific. Upgrades including the WS-15 engine are expected to enhance the J-20’s range and speed, positioning the PLAAF as a formidable peer competitor to the U.S. F-35 program.

• NATO Jan 18: Trillion Dollar Price Tag for Europe to Maintain NATO Without America

  New reports suggest that European nations would need to invest over $1 trillion to maintain credible military deterrence if the U.S. withdraws from NATO. Tensions have escalated following U.S. claims on Greenland, which have caused friction among alliance members. While some European leaders advocate for increased defense spending, others remain divided on how to bridge the massive capability gap left by a potential shift in American strategic priorities.

• RUSSIA Jan 18: Record Snow Apocalypse Buries Kamchatka Shattering 146 Year Weather Records

  The Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia's Far East is grappling with a "snow apocalypse" that has shattered 146-year-old records. Relentless storms have buried buildings up to the second floor, leaving towns completely isolated. Emergency crews are working to clear rooftops to prevent collapses, while at least two deaths have been reported. Scientists attribute the extreme event to moisture-rich cyclonic systems over the Pacific meeting freezing Arctic air masses.

• DEFENSE Jan 18: Pakistan and Indonesia Near Deal for JF-17 Thunder Fighter Jets

  Pakistan and Indonesia are reportedly finalizing a multi-billion-dollar defense deal involving the JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. The co-developed Sino-Pak aircraft has seen a surge in interest, with recent exports to Azerbaijan paving the way for further deals. While Indonesia has historically looked toward Western or Russian platforms, the JF-17 offers a cost-effective alternative for fleet modernization. The deal also includes potential cooperation on drone technology and maritime security.

• SPACE Jan 18: China Suffers Rare Dual Launch Failure as Long March Missions Fail

  China’s space program faced a significant setback with the dual failure of the Long March 3B and the debut Ceres-2 missions. Both launches failed to reach their intended orbits, resulting in the loss of multiple satellites. While China has maintained a high launch success rate in recent years, these consecutive failures are being closely analyzed by engineers to identify potential systemic issues in the propulsion or guidance systems of the rockets.