South African police concluded a rescue operation at an abandoned gold mine, retrieving 246 survivors and 78 confirmed dead miners, trapped for months while working illegally. The death toll may be higher, as community groups reported additional bodies. Criticism arose over the government’s delayed rescue efforts, which allegedly left miners to die from starvation or dehydration. Survivors, some severely emaciated, will face charges of illegal mining and trespassing. The operation’s abrupt end came despite earlier plans to continue until next week. Penelope Kingsley 16/01/2025 4:30 am
President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump both claimed credit for a ceasefire and hostage-release deal between Hamas and Israel. Their teams collaborated closely, with key meetings in Qatar and Israel. Biden’s officials highlighted a crucial meeting involving Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Israeli PM Netanyahu. Despite their contentious history, this cooperation marked a rare bipartisan effort. Trump attributed the deal to his election victory, while Biden emphasized his administration’s groundwork and U.S. support for Israel. When asked who deserved more credit, Biden refrained from answering directly. Ava Sinclair 16/01/2025 4:30 am
Saudi Arabia is advancing its position in the global critical minerals sector, unveiling a $100 billion mineral investment project at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh. $20 billion is already in advanced stages. The kingdom plans to expand exploration for lithium, copper, gold, and other critical minerals. The estimated value of unexploited resources rose to $2.5 trillion. Aramco and Ma’aden announced a joint venture for energy transition minerals, with promising lithium concentrations identified. A $182 million incentive program for exploration was also established. Ava Sinclair 15/01/2025 6:00 pm
Polish PM Donald Tusk accused Russia of planning global air terror, citing U.S. intelligence warnings about incendiary devices on cargo planes. Tusk’s remarks came during a meeting with Ukrainian leader Zelenskyy. Russia has faced previous accusations of sabotaging European transport and jamming GPS signals. Czech Transport Minister Martin Kupka noted Russian attempts to attack European railways. Recently, Russia was accused of downing an Azerbaijani jet, echoing the 2014 MH17 incident. Kremlin spokesperson Peskov dismissed the accusations as baseless. The story is ongoing. Penelope Kingsley 15/01/2025 6:00 pm
President Joe Biden claimed he assembled one of the most competent foreign policy teams in U.S. history, despite criticism. His remarks followed the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal in 2021, which damaged U.S. credibility and emboldened terrorism. In 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine, partly due to perceived weak U.S. response. Additionally, U.S. influence waned in Africa, and in October 2023, Iranian-backed Hamas attacked Israel, escalating regional conflict. Noah Prescott 15/01/2025 6:00 pm
The proposed cease-fire aims to facilitate the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza and Palestinian prisoners in Israel after a year of conflict. The agreement requires Israeli cabinet approval, with last-minute negotiations over the Egypt-Gaza border. Hamas confirmed the deal, though no formal statement was released. President-elect Trump announced the deal, crediting his pressure for progress. The conflict has weakened Hamas, with key leaders killed. Both sides have yet to publicly endorse the agreement, but discussions are ongoing. Some Israeli hard-liners oppose the deal. Ava Sinclair 15/01/2025 6:00 pm
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was arrested for questioning over his martial law decree, facing accusations of insurrection. This marks the first time a sitting president in South Korea has been detained. Yoon, held in solitary confinement, refused to answer questions or allow recordings. He dismissed the investigations as “illegal” and claimed to cooperate to prevent violence. The Corruption Investigation Office has 48 hours to apply for an arrest warrant. Supporters and opponents gathered outside amid sub-zero temperatures. Noah Prescott 15/01/2025 6:00 pm
In Huitzilac, Mexico, schools and businesses closed after five people were killed on the same street where eight died months earlier. The victims were campaigning for local positions managing communal resources. The town, in a conflict-ridden area of Morelos state, faces violence from competing criminal groups. Mayor César Dávila DÃaz condemned the attack but denied cartel involvement. National Guard troops arrived to support local police. Residents, like José Romero, say security fluctuates with the presence of security forces. Ava Sinclair 15/01/2025 2:30 pm
Russia launched a major missile attack on Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure and causing power outages amid freezing weather. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed the strikes aimed at critical gas and energy facilities supporting Ukraine’s military. This followed Russia’s vow to retaliate against alleged attacks on its soil. Ukraine reported hitting Russian targets but didn’t confirm the specific attack. The conflict, marked by long-range strikes, continues with intense pressure in the eastern Donetsk region. Ukraine’s Air Force reported intercepting many missiles and drones, but some reached targets, prompting emergency power shutdowns. Noah Prescott 15/01/2025 2:30 pm
Supporters of South Korea’s suspended president, Yoon Suk Yeol, reacted with tears and dismay upon his arrest, highlighting the country’s deep polarization. Yoon’s arrest followed a failed attempt and a tense standoff, intensifying uncertainty. His supporters and opponents clashed outside his residence, turning central Seoul into a protest hub. While Yoon’s backers expressed frustration and anger, his opponents celebrated his arrest, underscoring the nation’s divide. Both sides desire stability but disagree on achieving it, as tensions remain high. Penelope Kingsley 15/01/2025 2:30 pm
