In 2024, billionaire wealth surged from $13 trillion to $15 trillion, marking the second-largest annual increase, according to Oxfam. The richest 1% now own nearly 45% of global wealth, while 44% live below the poverty line. Oxfam predicts at least five trillionaires within a decade, highlighting that 60% of billionaire wealth stems from inheritance and crony connections. Elon Musk is projected to become the first trillionaire by 2027. The report coincides with Donald Trump’s return to the White House and the World Economic Forum in Davos. Noah Prescott 20/01/2025 1:30 pm
An Indian court sentenced police volunteer Sanjay Roy to life imprisonment for the rape and murder of a junior doctor in Kolkata, rejecting the death penalty. The crime, which occurred at R G Kar Medical College, sparked national outrage and protests for better hospital security. Despite federal police deeming it “rarest-of-rare,” Judge Anirban Das disagreed, citing insufficient evidence for such a classification. Roy, claiming innocence, can appeal. The victim’s parents, present in court, expressed dissatisfaction with the investigation, suspecting more involvement. Security was heightened during the sentencing. Ava Sinclair 20/01/2025 1:30 pm
In north-east Colombia, at least 80 people have been killed and thousands displaced due to escalating violence between the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident Farc factions. The collapse of a fragile truce has led to severe unrest in a major cocaine hub, forcing 5,000 people to flee. Schools have become emergency shelters, and emergency aid is requested. The violence has resulted in injuries, kidnappings, and disrupted burials. The conflict challenges President Gustavo Petro’s peace efforts, as armed groups vie for control in former Farc areas. Noah Prescott 20/01/2025 1:30 pm
Emily Damari, a 28-year-old British-Israeli, expressed gratitude and joy after being released from captivity in Gaza. Captured on October 7, 2023, she was shot in the hand and lost two fingers. Her release was part of a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. In an Instagram post, she thanked God, her family, and friends, expressing excitement over the support she received. Her mother, Mandy, campaigned tirelessly for her release, celebrating her return after 471 days. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the release “wonderful and long overdue.” Noah Prescott 20/01/2025 10:00 am
Novak Djokovic skipped the on-court interview after his Australian Open win due to offensive comments made by a Channel 9 broadcaster. The broadcaster mocked Djokovic and his Serbian fans, and neither he nor Channel 9 apologized. Djokovic explained his decision in a press conference, highlighting the lack of apology as the reason for his refusal to engage with the official broadcaster. The incident involved Tony Jones sarcastically chanting negative remarks about Djokovic during a live segment. Ava Sinclair 20/01/2025 10:00 am
Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend the 60th inauguration in Washington but is sending Vice President Han Zheng. This comes amid potential U.S.-China tensions under Trump, who has proposed tariffs and has China hawks in his Cabinet. Trump and Xi recently discussed trade and other issues. Argentine President Milei, who met Trump post-election, will attend several inaugural events, including the swearing-in ceremony. Noah Prescott 20/01/2025 10:00 am
Many Americans are unaware of Taiwan’s strategic importance, which could weaken national resolve in a conflict. National will is crucial for preventing or winning a war over Taiwan, as initial support can wane if stakes aren’t clear. Historical conflicts show adversaries act when they perceive U.S. resolve as weak. President Biden has pledged to defend Taiwan, but officials haven’t clearly communicated its significance, risking insufficient public support. Penelope Kingsley 20/01/2025 10:00 am
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
