In Cetinje, Montenegro, a gunman killed 12 people, including two children, before committing suicide. The attack followed a bar brawl, leaving four others wounded. The shooter, Aco Martinović, targeted the bar owner’s family and his own relatives. Residents of the 17,000-strong town are in shock and grief. The incident marks the second such tragedy in three years. Noah Prescott 02/01/2025 9:30 pm
Syria’s new government faces backlash over proposed curriculum changes, perceived as having an Islamist slant. Critics highlight amendments like redefining “martyr” and altering religious references. The changes, announced on the education ministry’s Facebook page, sparked outrage, especially regarding religious content. The interim government, led by HTS after Assad’s ousting, claims the changes are not yet implemented. Social media users question the interim government’s authority to amend curricula, while the ministry downplays the changes, stating they only removed pro-Assad content. Noah Prescott 02/01/2025 6:01 pm
The Palestinian Authority (PA) has suspended Al Jazeera from operating in the West Bank, citing “inciting material” and “deceiving reports.” This follows Israel’s earlier closure of Al Jazeera’s Ramallah office. Al Jazeera accuses the PA of trying to conceal events, especially in Jenin, and urges the PA to reverse the decision. The ban’s duration is unclear. Tensions have risen in the West Bank amid ongoing conflicts, and Al Jazeera’s relationship with Israeli authorities has been strained, particularly after journalist Shireen Abu Akleh’s death. Noah Prescott 02/01/2025 6:01 pm
Montenegro is observing a three-day mourning period after Aleksandar Martinovic, 45, killed 12 people, including two children, on New Year’s Day. The gunman, who had a history of illegal weapons possession, died after attempting suicide when cornered by police. President Jakov Milatovic expressed shock, while Prime Minister Milojko Spajic proposed a potential gun ownership ban. The tragedy has deeply affected the small Balkan nation, known for its strong gun culture but few mass shootings. Four others remain hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. Noah Prescott 02/01/2025 6:01 pm
Elon Musk faces criticism from UK parliamentarians for supporting far-right figure Tommy Robinson’s release from prison. Robinson, founder of the English Defense League, was jailed for breaching a court order. Musk’s comments align with his recent support for Germany’s far-right AfD party, sparking concerns about his influence on democracy. Labour MP Stella Creasy criticized Musk’s actions, while former PM Liz Truss and Reform UK Leader Nigel Farage have shown support for Musk. Reform UK declined to comment on Musk’s statements. Penelope Kingsley 02/01/2025 6:01 pm
China imposed punitive trade measures on 28 U.S. companies, including Raytheon, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin, escalating tensions with the U.S. ahead of Donald Trump’s presidency. The Ministry of Commerce added these companies to an export control list, banning dual-use item exports and placing 10 on an “unreliable entities list” due to arms sales to Taiwan. This move, largely symbolic, expands previous sanctions, reflecting a broader scope of targeted entities. Ava Sinclair 02/01/2025 6:01 pm
Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol vowed to “fight until the end” amid attempts to arrest him over martial law declaration. His supporters rallied, while the opposition accused him of inciting insurrection. A court approved his arrest warrant, but his lawyer claims it’s illegal. Yoon’s impeachment trial continues, with the finance minister acting as president. If upheld, a new election will occur within 60 days. The Corruption Investigation Office has until January 6 to execute the warrant, facing resistance from Yoon’s security. Penelope Kingsley 02/01/2025 11:01 am
Ivory Coast announced the withdrawal of French forces, following similar moves by other West African nations like Chad and Senegal, reducing France’s influence in the region. President Alassane Ouattara stated that the Ivorian Army’s modernization made the 600 French troops unnecessary. France’s military presence in Africa will now be limited to Djibouti and Gabon, a significant reduction from its previous deployments in the Sahel. Noah Prescott 02/01/2025 11:01 am
Victims of a $12.5 million jewelry heist in London are offering up to $1.9 million in rewards to recover stolen items and catch the thief. The burglary occurred in Primrose Hill, targeting art collector Shafira Huang’s property. The thief stole jewelry, designer handbags, and cash after entering through a second-floor window. Notable items include jewel-encrusted necklaces, Hermes handbags, and De Beers rings. London’s Met Police released an image of the suspect, who was armed and masked. The homeowners, absent during the burglary, believe it was a professional job. Penelope Kingsley 02/01/2025 7:31 am
In New Zealand, a driver fatally struck Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming and seriously injured another officer during a New Year’s Day patrol. This rare attack shocked the nation, marking Fleming as the first female officer killed on duty by a criminal act. A 32-year-old man was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including murder. Police Commissioner Richard Chambers condemned the act, while Police Minister Mark Mitchell and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expressed their sorrow over the incident. Penelope Kingsley 02/01/2025 7:31 am
