A fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Bolu, Turkey, killed at least 76 people, with some victims jumping from windows to escape. The blaze started during a busy holiday period, affecting 234 guests. The death toll rose from an initial 10, and nine people, including the hotel owner, have been arrested. Notable victims include a young swimmer, a chef, and a university dean. The fire took 12 hours to extinguish, and 51 people were injured, with one in intensive care. Linen was used by some to escape the building. Ava Sinclair 22/01/2025 12:30 am
During his second term, U.S. President Donald Trump faces a united front of adversaries, including Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. Following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, China and Russia have strengthened ties, with Beijing supporting Russia economically. Trump aims to end the Ukraine war, curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and counter China while bolstering the U.S. military. Recently, Russia signed strategic pacts with North Korea and Iran, further solidifying this alliance. Noah Prescott 22/01/2025 12:30 am
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the EU’s economic strength and openness to global partnerships, contrasting with U.S. President Trump’s “America First” approach. Speaking at the World Economic Forum, she highlighted the EU’s commitment to the Paris climate pact and its advantages in trade, social, and environmental standards. Von der Leyen portrayed Europe as a reliable partner, seeking cooperation with countries like Mexico and China, and stressed the EU’s rule-based, transparent dealings, aiming for alliances rather than confrontations. Penelope Kingsley 21/01/2025 9:00 pm
Three Israeli captives were released by Hamas in Gaza, sparking mixed reactions in Israel. The exchange involved a ceasefire and the release of 90 Palestinian women and children from Israeli prisons. The public was shocked by images of armed Hamas fighters in Gaza, raising doubts about the effectiveness of the 15-month war. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s promise to eradicate Hamas was questioned. Israeli journalist Israel Frey highlighted the dehumanization of Palestinians in Israeli narratives, while Palestinian activist Amal Oraby criticized Israeli media for inciting against Gazans. Ava Sinclair 21/01/2025 9:00 pm
Rep. Elise Stefanik, nominated by President Trump for the U.N. role, criticized the U.N. for bias against Israel, Chinese influence, and ineffective peacekeeping. However, she believes the U.N. can be reformed with strong American leadership. Speaking to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Stefanik emphasized countering China’s growing influence by enhancing U.S. presence at the U.N. She highlighted China’s strategic placement of CCP leaders in U.N. roles and pledged to increase U.S. representation to counteract this influence. Ava Sinclair 21/01/2025 9:00 pm
Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need for “at least 200,000” allied troops to enforce a peace deal in Ukraine, urging Europe to strengthen its defense against Russian aggression. Speaking at the World Economic Forum, he stressed Europe’s need to act independently of U.S. politics, particularly with Donald Trump’s return to power. Zelenskyy highlighted the involvement of North Korean troops in Russia’s war against Ukraine and rejected reducing Ukraine’s army size, a Kremlin demand. He also mentioned efforts to meet with Trump, who has promised a swift resolution to the conflict. Noah Prescott 21/01/2025 9:00 pm
U.S. President Donald Trump mistakenly identified Spain as a BRICS member, causing confusion and concern over potential tariffs in Madrid. Spain is not part of BRICS, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, but is a NATO and EU member. Trump made the error while discussing NATO defense spending, noting Spain’s low expenditure. He then incorrectly linked Spain to BRICS and reiterated a tariff threat against BRICS nations, proposing a 100% tariff on their trade with the U.S., challenging longstanding free trade policies. Noah Prescott 21/01/2025 9:00 pm
Nine Palestinians were killed and 35 injured in an Israeli operation in Jenin, West Bank, involving air strikes and ground forces. Israel’s Prime Minister described it as a significant effort to combat terrorism in the area. The operation, named “Iron Wall,” follows a Gaza ceasefire and raises concerns of escalating violence. Jenin’s governor called it an invasion, with Israeli forces besieging the camp. Palestinian security withdrew before the attack, and Israeli forces reportedly targeted civilians and security personnel. Israel aims to dismantle armed groups and counter Iranian influence in the region. Noah Prescott 21/01/2025 9:00 pm
Australia’s federal police are investigating potential overseas funding for antisemitic crimes, including a recent arson at a Sydney childcare center. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese convened a cabinet meeting, resulting in plans for a national database to track such incidents. The federal police taskforce has received over 166 reports since December. Commissioner Reece Kershaw mentioned possible cryptocurrency involvement and online radicalization of youth. A Sydney man was recently charged for alleged death threats. The Jewish Council of Australia condemned the incidents, emphasizing the need for education and dialogue. Noah Prescott 21/01/2025 5:30 pm
The Israeli military launched a major assault on Jenin in the northern West Bank, killing at least seven Palestinians and wounding 35. The operation, involving bombings and a ground assault, is expected to last several days. Palestinian Authority forces withdrew as the offensive began. Israeli forces besieged hospitals, and clashes erupted with Palestinian fighters. Ambulances struggled to reach the wounded due to the intense assault. Local reports indicate casualties in multiple areas, with medical personnel among the injured. The situation is described as extremely dire. Ava Sinclair 21/01/2025 5:30 pm
