Over 80 people were killed and 20 injured in Colombia’s northeast after failed peace talks with the National Liberation Army. Thousands fled the violence, with many seeking refuge in mountains or shelters. Community leader Carmelo Guerrero and others involved in peace efforts were among the victims. The attacks occurred in the Catatumbo region, near Venezuela. Defense Minister Iván Velásquez urged armed groups to demobilize and prioritized community safety. The government is sending aid to affected areas, with officials emphasizing the urgent need for help in Catatumbo. Penelope Kingsley 20/01/2025 6:30 am
Over 630 trucks of humanitarian aid have entered Gaza following a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The UN reports that 300 trucks are aiding the north. The ceasefire aims for 600 aid trucks daily and includes a prisoner exchange. Aid efforts face challenges from lawlessness and past restrictions. A delay in releasing Palestinian prisoners arose due to a dispute over names. Hamas is working with mediators to resolve the issue, expecting the release soon. The Israeli military has not commented on the delay. Ava Sinclair 20/01/2025 6:30 am
Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s far-right national security minister, resigned from Netanyahu’s Cabinet to protest a Gaza ceasefire deal. His departure weakens Netanyahu’s coalition, risking a loss of parliamentary majority if more far-right lawmakers follow suit. Ben-Gvir opposed the ceasefire for requiring Israel to release Palestinian prisoners and withdraw troops, potentially allowing Hamas to remain in power. Known for his provocative actions, Ben-Gvir has a history of legal issues, including convictions for racism and supporting a terrorist organization. Penelope Kingsley 20/01/2025 6:30 am
Clara Merman, held captive in Gaza for 53 days, criticized Hamas for staging their actions as a show of control during her release. She described the ordeal as a “blatant performance” and urged sensitivity in helping survivors recover. Merman reflected on the challenges of captivity, expressing disbelief at enduring such conditions and finding hope in the release of other hostages. She emphasized the need to continue supporting families still waiting for their loved ones’ return. Penelope Kingsley 20/01/2025 3:00 am
The icy inauguration of Donald Trump’s second presidency aligns with his extraordinary impact. This event affects everyone, not just Americans, as Trump promises sweeping changes domestically and globally. With experience shaping his team, Trump commands loyalty to push his agenda. Critics warn of chaos and instability, but his message resonates with many voters. The Trump era has transformed American politics, marking a new chapter with different dynamics and priorities. Ava Sinclair 20/01/2025 3:00 am
Eitan Gonen expressed immense gratitude and relief as his daughter Romi, abducted by Hamas during the October 7, 2023, attack, is set to return from Gaza. Held captive for over 14 months, her imminent release brings cautious optimism to the family. Eitan likened the anticipation to awaiting a birth, capturing the joy and excitement of Romi’s homecoming. Her release is part of a broader hostage-ceasefire deal, symbolizing hope for Israel. The family is overwhelmed with support, as people celebrate Romi’s return. Ava Sinclair 19/01/2025 11:30 pm
More than 80 people have been killed and 20 injured in Colombia’s northeast, following failed peace talks with the National Liberation Army (ELN). Community leader Carmelo Guerrero and others seeking peace were among the victims. Attacks occurred in Catatumbo, near Venezuela, with kidnappings reported. Thousands are fleeing, some hiding in mountains or seeking shelter. Colombia’s army rescued dozens, and officials are sending aid. The violence follows suspended peace talks with the ELN, who are clashing with former FARC members over control of a strategic region with coca plantations. Noah Prescott 19/01/2025 11:30 pm
An Israeli mother and her daughter welcomed three former hostages at Sheba Medical Center in Tel Aviv, following their release in a ceasefire deal with Hamas. The hostages, Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, and Emily Damari, were kidnapped during Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack. In exchange, Israel will release 90 Palestinian prisoners. Celebrations erupted in Tel Aviv as the hostages arrived, with people singing, waving flags, and expressing gratitude. The release marked a significant moment for Israelis amid the ongoing conflict. Penelope Kingsley 19/01/2025 11:30 pm
A disturbing video shows gun-wielding terrorists surrounding a Hamas truck holding three Israeli hostages in Gaza. The women, held captive for nearly 500 days, were being transferred to the Red Cross for release. Despite the chaos, all three—British Emily Damari, Romi Gonen, and Doron Steinbrecher—were safely returned to Israel. This exchange marks the start of a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas after 15 months of conflict. The women will receive medical and psychological support before reuniting with their families. Noah Prescott 19/01/2025 8:00 pm
As Donald Trump returns to the White House for a second term, loyalty will be crucial. Unlike 2017, Trump is now a seasoned political figure with a strong hold on the Republican Party. He has raised at least $170 million for his inauguration, surpassing his 2017 total. With increased support from businesses and tech, Trump is prepared to govern from day one, marking a new era in his presidency. Ava Sinclair 19/01/2025 8:00 pm
