Satellite images reveal a nearly completed airstrip on Yemen’s Abd al-Kuri Island, likely built by the UAE. This strategic location could support military operations in the Gulf of Aden, crucial for shipping routes disrupted by Houthi attacks. The UAE’s involvement aligns with its support for the Saudi-led war against the Houthis. The conflict, linked to broader regional tensions, risks escalating, especially with Houthi attacks on Israel and U.S. warships. Experts warn that any miscalculation could destabilize the region further, as the Houthis thrive on conflict. Ava Sinclair 17/01/2025 7:00 pm
Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for corruption, the longest sentence he has received among over 100 charges. Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were accused of accepting land as a bribe from a real estate tycoon through the Al-Qadir Trust. Khan allegedly used £190m repatriated by the UK’s National Crime Agency to pay the tycoon’s fines. Khan’s party claims the charges are politically motivated. Bibi received a seven-year sentence and was taken into custody. Khan maintains his innocence. Noah Prescott 17/01/2025 7:00 pm
A security cabinet vote on a cease-fire with Hamas was delayed due to disputes within Netanyahu’s coalition. Despite this, Netanyahu suggested a cease-fire could be in effect by the weekend. Secretary of State Blinken expressed confidence in the agreement starting Sunday. Hard-line minister Itamar Ben-Gvir threatened to resign if the deal was approved, potentially destabilizing the coalition. However, opposition lawmakers pledged support for the cease-fire, which aims to free hostages and Palestinian prisoners, even if hard-line allies exit the coalition. Ava Sinclair 17/01/2025 7:00 pm
The UN and media claim Gaza is starving due to Israeli blockades, but Israel’s COGAT reports show aid trucks entering Gaza daily. Many trucks remain uncollected, with food rotting because the UN and agencies refuse to deliver without Hamas protection, rejecting Israeli security offers. Critics argue this perpetuates a myth of Israeli obstruction, while aid groups like Mercy Corps blame Israel for the crisis, demanding a ceasefire and criticizing supposed delivery impediments. Ava Sinclair 17/01/2025 3:30 pm
China’s population declined for the third consecutive year, reaching 1.408 billion by the end of 2024, a drop of 1.39 million. This trend mirrors global patterns, particularly in East Asia, where birth rates are falling due to rising living costs and career priorities. China’s aging population and low immigration exacerbate the issue. Historically, China’s population surged post-World War II, but concerns over resources led to the “one child policy,” which faced criticism for its harsh enforcement. Despite efforts to curb gender-selective abortions, challenges persist. Ava Sinclair 17/01/2025 3:30 pm
Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol remains detained after his lawyers failed to secure his release. Yoon was questioned over rebellion allegations linked to his martial law declaration. Despite his lawyers’ claims of an illegal investigation, the Seoul Central District Court upheld his detention. Yoon avoided prior questioning, prompting a large-scale operation for his arrest. The anti-corruption agency has 48 hours to seek a formal arrest order. Yoon’s martial law declaration led to his impeachment, sparking a major political crisis. Ava Sinclair 17/01/2025 3:30 pm
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty, enhancing cooperation in trade, military, science, education, and culture. Putin hailed the agreement as a breakthrough for regional development, aiming to boost trade and resolve technical issues for projects like Russian gas shipments to Iran. Pezeshkian emphasized regional self-reliance and criticized external interference. The signing, unrelated to Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration, marks Pezeshkian’s third meeting with Putin, reinforcing their strategic partnership. Ava Sinclair 17/01/2025 3:30 pm
Three lawyers for the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny were sentenced to prison on extremism charges, highlighting the risks of ties to the opposition in Russia. Vadim Kobzev received 5½ years, Alexei Lipster five years, and Igor Sergunin 3½ years. They were also barred from practicing law for three years post-release. Navalny’s lead lawyer, Olga Mikhailova, was charged in absentia. The trial was closed to media, citing potential provocations by Navalny’s supporters. Other lawyers and journalists have faced similar pressures or fled the country. Noah Prescott 17/01/2025 3:30 pm
The American economy faces significant challenges, with declining industrial output and lost leadership in key technologies. Despite high corporate profits and stock prices, issues like the opioid crisis and global conflicts reveal underlying weaknesses. President-elect Donald Trump aims to address these by boosting domestic energy, building “freedom cities,” and revitalizing manufacturing. His proposals align with Republican Party factions, suggesting potential success in restoring U.S. economic strength and innovation. Ava Sinclair 17/01/2025 3:30 pm
A Russian drone targeted central Kyiv during British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s talks with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. Debris from a downed drone destroyed a car near the Mariinsky Palace, but no casualties were reported. Despite the attack, Starmer and Zelenskyy continued their discussions on Ukraine’s security. Starmer emphasized the attack as a reminder of Russian aggression. He is in Kyiv to support Ukraine and will sign a “100-year partnership” treaty to strengthen security and ties. Political forces sympathetic to Moscow are gaining ground in Europe. Penelope Kingsley 17/01/2025 12:00 pm
